These questions are designed to spark conversation with students to expand growth mindset and social-emotional learning. This week’s topic is about being truthful and dependable. The discussion provides opportunities to apply the affirmation to each of the five core competencies of social and emotional learning.
SEL Discussion Resource: I AM HONEST AND TRUSTWORTHY
Self-awareness
Let’s say the affirmation together. I am honest and trustworthy.
When is it most difficult for you to be honest?
Trustworthy means others can depend on you. Give an example of what it means to be trustworthy when you make a promise to someone else.
When you tell a lie, what physical reaction do you feel? (Examples: sick stomach, flushed face, heart pound, look away, twitch, headache, fidget, etc.)
Self-management
If someone asks your opinion about something and you can’t think of anything kind to say, which would you do?
A) Say the truth, even if it will hurt that person’s feelings.
B) Say nothing at all.
C) Keep thinking until you find one positive thing.
D) Other
Responsible decision-making
Imagine you have a project that must be finished and turned in, but you got carried away with a video game and didn’t finish. What does an honest person do?
Imagine your friend wants you to come outside to play soccer, but you promised your mom you would take out the garbage. What does a trustworthy person do?
Social awareness
How can you tell if someone isn’t being honest? What actions or emotions do they show?
How do you decide if you can trust someone or not?
What emotions or feelings tell you when someone shouldn’t be trusted?
Relationship skills
What would you do if you discovered a friend had lied to you? How would you work it out?
If you trusted an adult and then realized they weren’t honest, what would you do? Who would you talk to about it if you thought you were in danger?
Next week’s SEL focus: THE TRUTH IS IMPORTANT TO ME
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.
