Discovering CASEL Competencies Plan Discovering CASEL Competencies Plan
Social-Emotional Learning • Grade 3
45
Minutes
Objective
Students will identify and describe the five CASEL social-emotional learning competencies through interactive games and discussions, then reflect on applying one competency in their lives.
Why This Matters
Introducing SEL early empowers students to understand emotions, build healthy relationships, and make responsible decisions, fostering a positive classroom climate.
Preparation
Review CASEL Intro Slides
Print & cut Emotion Charades Cards
Print & cut Competency Matching Cards
Copy Feelings Reflection Exit Ticket
Arrange small-group seating
Instructional Steps
1
Emotion Charades Warm-Up
7 Min
Divide students into small groups of 4–5.
Give each group a stack of Emotion Charades Cards .
Students take turns acting out the emotion without words while the group guesses.
Teacher Prompt: "How might self-awareness help us recognize this feeling in ourselves?"
2
Introduction to CASEL Competencies
8 Min
Project the CASEL Intro Slides .
Define SEL and explain why it matters (learning to manage emotions and build relationships).
Introduce each competency with a quick real-life example.
Invite students to share one situation where they've used any of these skills.
3
Competency Matching Activity
15 Min
Pair students and give each pair a shuffled deck of Competency Matching Cards .
Pairs match names with descriptions and example scenarios.
Circulate and prompt: "What makes that example 'Relationship Skills' instead of 'Social Awareness'?"
Have pairs share one successful match with the whole class.
4
Group Reflection Discussion
8 Min
Discuss: "Which competency do you find easiest? Which is most challenging?"
Chart responses on the board under each competency category.
Highlight themes and celebrate how everyone is growing in different ways.
5
Feelings Reflection Exit Ticket
5 Min
Distribute the Exit Ticket .
Ask students to reflect on one competency they used today or recently.
Collect tickets to review student understanding.
CASEL Intro Slides What Does SEL Mean?
Building Skills for Life, School, and Friendship
Grade 3
Teacher Note: Welcome students and introduce the session.
What Is SEL?
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) is how we learn to:
Understand our feelings
Build healthy relationships
Make responsible decisions
Self-Awareness
The Definition:
Recognizing your own emotions, thoughts, and values.
Example:
“I notice I feel excited when I finish a drawing.”
Self-Management
The Definition:
Managing stress, controlling impulses, and motivating yourself.
Example:
“I take three deep breaths when I feel frustrated.”
Social Awareness
The Definition:
Understanding others’ perspectives and showing empathy.
Example:
“I comfort a friend who is sad.”
Relationship Skills
The Definition:
Communicating clearly and working cooperatively with others.
Example:
“My partner and I take turns when building with blocks.”
Responsible Choice
The Definition:
Making caring, constructive choices about your behavior.
Example:
“I quiet down when the teacher speaks so everyone can hear.”
Emotion Charades Cards Emotion Charades Cards
Cut along the dashed lines. Use these cards for a fun, interactive warm-up activity!
Happy
Sad
Angry
Surprised
Scared
Excited
Frustrated
Proud
Calm
Confused
Embarrassed
Curious
Teacher Prompt
"After each charade, ask: 'How might self-awareness help us recognize this feeling in ourselves?'"
Competency Matching Cards Competency Matching Activity
Cut along the dashed lines to create ten cards. Match each Competency Name with its Description & Example.
Self-Awareness
Recognizing your own emotions, thoughts, and values.
Example: “I notice I feel excited when I finish a drawing.”
Self-Management
Managing stress, controlling impulses, and motivating yourself.
Example: “I take three deep breaths when I feel frustrated.”
Social Awareness
Understanding others’ perspectives and showing empathy.
Example: “I comfort a friend who is sad.”
Relationship Skills
Communicating clearly and listening actively; working cooperatively.
Example: “My partner and I take turns when building with blocks.”
Responsible Choice
Making caring, constructive choices about personal and social behavior.
Example: “I choose to quiet down when the teacher is speaking.”
Feelings Reflection Exit Ticket Exit Ticket
Name
Date
Feelings Reflection
Think back on today's lesson. Answer the questions below by writing or drawing in the boxes!
1. One SEL competency I used today was:
2. A moment I showed this competency was when:
Write or Draw
3. Using this competency helped me or someone else by:
Share the "Why"
