Example SEL Activities
Browse examples of how MindfulTeach integrates SEL across different subjects and grade levels.
Mathematics: Geometry
7th Grade
Activity Description
Students explore geometric shapes and their emotional associations, connecting mathematical concepts with emotional awareness.
Implementation Steps
- Begin class by displaying various geometric shapes and ask students to write down which shapes make them feel calm, energized, or tense.
- Have students share their associations in pairs, noting similarities and differences in perceptions.
- Connect to lesson by discussing how architects and designers use geometric properties to create specific emotional responses.
Students identify and reflect on their emotional responses to visual stimuli.
Through sharing, students recognize how others may have different emotional associations with the same shapes.
History: Civil War
9th Grade
Activity Description
Students practice historical empathy by examining the Civil War from multiple perspectives, connecting emotional understanding to historical analysis.
Implementation Steps
- Begin by asking students to reflect on a time they strongly disagreed with someone they care about and what emotions arose.
- During the lesson, pause at key decision points to have students journal briefly about what emotions might have influenced historical figures.
- Conclude with a reflection on how understanding emotional aspects of historical conflicts helps navigate modern disagreements.
Students develop perspective-taking abilities by considering the emotional context of historical figures.
Students analyze how emotions influence important decisions in both historical and personal contexts.
Science: Ecosystems
5th Grade
Activity Description
Students connect the interdependence in ecosystems to their own relationships and support systems.
Implementation Steps
- After teaching about ecosystem components, have students draw their own 'human ecosystem' showing people they depend on.
- Guide discussion about how disruptions affect both natural ecosystems and human support networks.
- Have students write a thank-you note to someone in their support system, expressing gratitude for a specific way that person helps them.
Students recognize the importance of interdependence and gratitude in maintaining healthy relationships.
Students identify their own support networks and reflect on their place within various communities.