Emotional Signals Facilitator Guide
Emotional Signals
Tier 3 Individual Support Session
Duration: 20 Minutes
Audience: 8th Grade Student
The Purpose
Understanding that emotions serve as signals fosters self-awareness and emotional intelligence, helping the student respond adaptively rather than reactively. This builds foundational skills for emotional regulation and resilience.
Objective
By the end of the session, the student will identify a recent emotion, interpret its underlying message (needs, boundaries, values), and outline one specific coping strategy.
Preparation Checklist (5 Minutes)
- Review previous check-ins or recent behavior patterns.
- Print the My Emotion Diary student material.
- Arrange a calm, private seating area.
- Have a pen or digital device ready for entry.
Session Procedure
2m
Introduction & Objectives
- Greet the student warmly and confirm confidentiality.
- Explain that emotions act like smoke detectors or signals about their needs/environment.
- Introduce the Emotion Diary as a tool for "decoding" these signals.
5m
Record a Recent Emotion
- Ask the student to recall a situation from the last 48 hours that triggered a strong feeling.
- Guide them to fill out Part 1 (Context) and Part 2 (Intensity) of the diary.
- Facilitator Tip: Encourage honesty without judgment. All emotions are data, not "good" or "bad".
8m
Interpret Emotional Signal
Discuss the entry: "What do you think this emotion is trying to tell you?"
Signal: Anger Boundary crossed or something feels unfair.
Signal: Anxiety Safety concern or need for preparation.
Signal: Sadness Loss of something important or need for connection.
Student writes interpretation in Part 3 (Signal Meaning) and Part 4 (Body Sensations).
5m
Plan Response & Wrap-Up
- Choose one proactive action (taking a break, deep breathing, assertive communication).
- Record this in Part 5 (Action Strategy).
- Set a commitment for the week (e.g., "I will use this once a day").
- Schedule follow-up and offer positive reinforcement.
My Emotion Diary Journal
My Emotion Diary
Emotions are data, not directives.
Name: __________________________
Date: ___________________________
1 Situation & Context
Describe what happened, where you were, who was there, and what led up to the emotion.
2 Emotion Label
3 Intensity (1–10)
Low
High
4 Signal Meaning
What is this emotion trying to tell you? (Need, boundary, value, etc.)
5 Body Sensations
How did your body feel? (Heat, tightness, shaking, etc.)
6 Action Strategy
What is one strategy you can use next time you notice this emotion?
Weekly Goal: I will use this diary
times this week.
"Reflecting on your emotions helps you understand yourself better."
Great job taking time to notice your feelings!
