What does it mean to be the best? How does a personal best become a win? This week’s SEL class discussion prompts provide opportunities for students to consider how being their best helps them to win at life and achieve positive outcomes. The discussion is a way to apply the affirmation to each of the five core competencies of social and emotional learning.

We provide the idea-starters with the intent that teachers can develop creative variations to adapt to age-appropriate use for their students. 

SEL Discussion Resource: I AM THE BEST

Self-awareness

  • Write or say the affirmation together: I am the best.
  • Fill in the blank: I am the best __________ I can be. Then describe your strengths that make you the best at this.
  • What challenge might you have if you want to be the best at everything?

Self-management

  • Writing prompt: When I am the best ___________ I can be, it helps others to____________.
  • Compare and contrast being the best and doing your best. How are they similar and different?
  • When have you had a personal best at something? (Discuss what it means to “better your best” even if you don’t win.)

Responsible decision-making

  • Imagine you want to be the best diver in a swimming competition. What else would you need to be the best at? (Minimizing distractions, setting goals, practicing, pushing yourself, trying again, taking instruction and correction, listening to coach, etc.)
  • Discuss: If someone is dishonest or cheats in order to be the number one, does this still make them the best?

Social awareness

  • Describe what you think it means to be the best
    • friend.
    • student.
    • self.
  • Fill in the blank: I have a friend who is the best at _____________.
  • Fill in the blank: I want to help others become the best  _____________.

Relationship skills

  • When someone else is “the best,” what are some ways you can let them know you’re proud of them? (high five, encouraging words, note, etc.)
  • Describe how competing to be the best could hurt a friendship.

 

Next week’s SEL focus: I AM A GREAT LISTENER


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.