This is the first of a weekly resource with discussion questions related to social and emotional learning and growth mindset. If you would like to subscribe to receive it in your inbox each week, you’ll also receive a free writing prompts printable tool. Sign up right here on our website.

Featuring one of our 30 affirmations each week, we will send questions or thoughtful reflection related to the five core competencies of SEL. We hope to spark discussion with your students as you select from the options and incorporate them into your classroom learning.


This SEL teaching moment centers around the Inspired Minds affirmation: I am smart. These discussion questions provide opportunities to apply the affirmation to each of the five core competencies of social and emotional learning.

Self-awareness

(Hold up the poster or card) Let’s say the affirmation together. I am smart.

What emotion do you feel when you read that statement?

Self-management

When a challenge stretches your abilities, what is a smart way to handle frustration?

Responsible decision-making

Give an example of a smart decision that you could make that would create a positive outcome.

How can learning from our mistakes help us to be smart with future decisions?

Social awareness

Name some ways a person can be smart that have nothing to do with grades or scores.

Relationship skills

What is one way that we could encourage someone else when we are working together on a task so we could help them have a positive view of a challenge?

Next week’s SEL focus: I am capable.


To find the full-size posters to use in your classroom (or the magnet or postcard size) visit our store.

Suggestion for virtual learning:

  • Purchase a pack of 30 postcards for the teacher to hold the appropriate one up to the screen during discussion.
  • Purchase a pack of 30 small hand-off notes for each student to have at home with them. This allows for an interactive and hands-on experience.