Size of The Problem
There is a bad storm, and we must take shelter
Huge/Emergency
Your pencil breaks while you are working.
Use your flexible brain and sharpen the pencil or get another one. Borrow a pencil from a friend. Continue working with another writing tool.
Expected Reaction: Stay calm and solve the problem independently.
Follow directions when asked
Finishes work on time, learns more, earns teacher trust, and helps the class run smoothly.
Complete my work during independent work time.
Outcome 1: I finish my assignments and feel proud of my effort.
Outcome 2: I have less homework or make-up work later.
I made a mistake on my paper
Small
A classmate accidentally bumps into you when lining up.
Use your flexible brain and remember it was probably an accident. Take a deep breath and move on. Politely tell the classmate if it bothered you.
Expected Reaction: Stay calm and use your words respectfully.
Talk while the teacher is speaking
Misses important information, distracts others, may need reminders or consequences, and can fall behind in work.
Refuse to participate in class activities.
Outcome 1: I may miss important learning opportunities.
Outcome 2: My teacher may need to talk with me about my choices.
I lost my library book.
Medium
You don't understand the directions for an assignment.
Ask the teacher for help. Ask a classmate to explain the directions. Use your flexible brain and look for examples or clues.
Expected Reaction: Seek support instead of giving up or becoming upset.
Use kind words with friends.
Builds friendships, creates a positive classroom environment, and helps others feel respected and included.
Include a classmate who is alone.
Outcome 1: I help someone feel welcome and accepted.
Outcome 2: I may make a new friend.
Someone bumps into you
Small
Another student repeatedly calls you mean names.
Tell the student to stop in a calm voice. Walk away from the situation. Tell a trusted adult or teacher what happened.
Expected Reaction: Get help from an adult and focus on staying safe.
Throw materials or damage property when upset.
Can cause safety concerns, damage classroom materials, lead to disciplinary consequences, and make others feel uncomfortable or unsafe.
Argue with classmates during group work.
Outcome 1: The group may have trouble finishing the assignment.
Outcome 2: Classmates may not want to work with me in the future.
I got separated from my class on a field trip.
Big
You see a student hit another student on the playground.
Get an adult immediately. Move away from the unsafe situation. Let adults handle the conflict.
Expected Reaction: Prioritize safety and seek adult assistance right away.
Ask for help when work is difficult.
Understands assignments better, reduces frustration, improves learning, and develops problem-solving skills.
Stay calm and use coping strategies when upset.
Outcome 1: I can solve problems more effectively.
Outcome 2: I am more likely to keep my privileges and stay focused on learning.