SOS Signals Cards
SOS Signals
Scenario Cards & Problem-Solving Activity
NAME: __________________________ DATE: __________________________
Mission Instructions
In your small group, take turns drawing a scenario card. For each situation, discuss why help is needed, who the best person to ask would be, and exactly what you would say to them. Fill in the signal logs below for each scenario.
Scenario 01: The Fog
"You're in the middle of a big Science project. You've read the instructions three times, but you still don't understand how to start the data chart."
Target Person
The Request (What to say)
Scenario 02: Dead Battery
"Your school laptop died and you forgot your charger at home. You have an essay due by the end of the period and you're only halfway done."
Target Person
The Request (What to say)
Scenario 03: Static Noise
"A group of friends is planning to meet up at the mall this weekend. You really want to go, but you're not sure how to ask your parents or if you can get a ride."
Target Person
The Request (What to say)
Scenario 04: Blackout
"You've been feeling really overwhelmed lately with school and sports. You feel like you're about to burst and don't know who to talk to about it."
Target Person
The Request (What to say)
Scenario 05: Lost Signal
"It's your first week at a new school. You can't find your elective classroom and the bell is about to ring. You feel embarrassed asking someone for help."
Target Person
The Request (What to say)
Scenario 06: Interference
"A classmate keeps making fun of your shoes. You've tried to ignore it, but now other kids are starting to join in. You want it to stop."
Target Person
The Request (What to say)
Scenario 07: Out of Range
"You missed a day of Math class because you were sick. Now you're trying to do the homework, but you don't even recognize the formula."
Target Person
The Request (What to say)
Scenario 08: Weak Link
"You're working on a Social Studies group project. One of your group mates isn't doing any work, and it's making the rest of the team stressed."
Target Person
The Request (What to say)
End of SOS Signal Log | Focus on Clarity and Confidence
Signal Strength Reference Sheet
Signal Strength
The Ultimate Guide to Asking for Help
1
Identify the Glitch
Stop and realize you're stuck. What exactly is the problem? (Time, materials, understanding, or feelings?)
2
Pick Your Receiver
Who is the best person to help? A teacher, a parent, a reliable friend, or a school counselor?
3
Send the Signal
Be clear and specific. Use a script like:
"I'm having trouble with [specific problem]. Could you please show me [specific action]?"
4
Confirm Connection
Thank them and make sure you understand the next step. If you're still stuck, ask a follow-up question!
Signal Boosters: Power Phrases
"I'm stuck on Step 2. Can you explain it differently?"
"I need some advice on a social situation. Do you have a minute?"
"I'm feeling overwhelmed. I need a break or some help."
"Could you check if I'm on the right track with this?"
Signal Established
SOS Facilitator Guide
SOS Facilitator Guide
Skill Builder: Asking for Help (7th Grade)
Teacher Resource
Learning Objective
Students will be able to identify specific barriers to asking for help, select appropriate individuals for different needs, and practice direct communication scripts using the Signal Strength framework.
Required Supplies
- Signal Strength Anchor Charts
- SOS Signals Scenario Cards
- Timer (optional)
The Lesson Flow
1. The Interference Check (5 mins)
Start with a discussion: "Why is it sometimes hard to ask for help in 7th grade?"
Common Responses: "I don't want to look dumb," "I'm embarrassed," "I think I can figure it out," "I don't want to bother the teacher."
2. Sending the Signal (10 mins)
Introduce the Signal Strength Reference Sheet. Explain that asking for help is a skill, not a weakness. Walk through the 4 steps, focusing on Step 3 (the script).
Key Point: Specific requests get specific help. "I don't get this" is a weak signal. "I don't understand how to start the chart" is a strong signal.
3. Mission Practice (15 mins)
Distribute the SOS Signals Scenario Cards. Have students work in pairs or small groups to solve their "missions."
- Identify if the help is for Academics, Social, or Wellness.
- Draft a "Strong Signal" script for the person identified.
4. Debrief (5 mins)
Have each student share one "Power Phrase" they feel comfortable using this week. Challenge them to "Send one Signal" before the next session.
Facilitator Pro-Tips
Watch for Passive Help-Seeking
Some students "ask" by sighing loudly or putting their head down. Point this out as a "Weak Signal" and help them turn it into a verbal request.
Roleplay is Key
Don't just write the scripts—say them! Practice tone of voice and eye contact to build confidence.
