Zones
During morning meeting, Maya sits up straight, smiles at her classmates, and quietly waits for instructions. What Zone is she likely in?
The Green Zone
Alex studied hard for a science quiz. When the teacher hands back the papers, Alex sees a big “A” at the top. Alex immediately smiles and sits up.
Happy or proud
You’re working in class and don’t understand the directions. The teacher is helping another student, and you start to feel stuck. What are some ways you could solve this problem?
Raise your hand and wait your turn
Asking a classmate for help appropriately
Reread the directions or check an example
Use a classroom help signal (like a help card)
During math class, Jordan keeps wiggling in his chair, can’t stop giggling at his friend’s jokes, and has trouble staying focused on his work. What Zone is he in?
The Yellow Zone
During lunch, Taylor sits down at a table, but the other students turn away and keep talking without letting Taylor join the conversation. Taylor slowly pushes their food around and looks down at the table.
Left out, sad, or lonely
Someone bumps into you in the hallway, and your papers fall all over the floor. They walk away without noticing. You start to feel angry and embarrassed. What could you do to feel better?
Taking a deep breath before reacting
Calmly picking up your papers and continuing to class
Asking a friend or nearby student to help pick things up
Talking to a teacher if you’re still upset afterward
Recess just ended, and Sam comes inside with tears in their eyes after losing a game. Their shoulders are drooped, and they keep wiping their nose. Which Zone are they in?
The Blue Zone
Jordan is walking into class when he drop his binder. All the papers scatter across the hallway. A group of students laughs instead of helping. Jordan’s face turns red and he quickly tries to pick everything up.
Embarrassed or upset
At lunch, your two friends start arguing about who gets to sit next to you. Both of them look upset, and you feel caught in the middle. You don’t want anyone to feel left out. What could you do to solve this problem?
Suggest that you all sit together at the same table
Offer to switch seats halfway through lunch so both friends get a turn
Tell them kindly that you don’t want to argue and you care about both of them
Ask the friends to talk it out calmly so everyone can enjoy lunch
Move to a neutral spot and inviting them both to join you
At lunch, Jay tries to sit down, but another student keeps pushing his tray away. Jay’s fists clench, his face tightens, and he shouts, “Stop doing that!” What zone is Jay in?
The Red Zone
During lunch, Eli waits in the long pizza line. When it’s finally his turn, the cafeteria worker says they just ran out. Eli’s shoulders tense, he sighs loudly, and he slams his tray down on the counter.
Frustrated, angry, or disappointed
You open your backpack and realize you forgot your homework at home. Class is starting, and you feel nervous about getting in trouble.
What could you do to handle this problem?
Tell the teacher honestly and calmly
Ask if you can redo the work during lunch or after school
Email or message a parent to send a picture of the homework (if allowed)
Write down what you remember from the assignment