Friendship Sparks Question Cards
Deck 1 • Grade 4 Getting to Know You
Friendship Sparks: Spotlight on Me
Social Skills Rule
Listen with eyes, ears & heart!
Superpower #01
Classroom Superpower
If you could bring one real-life superpower into 4th grade (like super-focus, speed-reading, or instant jokes), what would it be and why?
Partner Action:
Ask: "When during the school day would that superpower help you the most?"
Free Time #02
The Weekend Rewind
What is your absolute favorite thing to do on a Saturday morning when you have zero chores and no homework?
Connection Check:
Do you share that interest? Say: "I also enjoy that!" or "My favorite is different..."
Proud Moment #03
A Proud Milestone
Describe a time you practiced hard and succeeded at something challenging (a sport, a craft, a video game level, or helping a pet).
Cheerleader Move:
Give a high-five or fist bump and say: "That took real determination!"
Creativity #04
Cafeteria Chef
If you were hired to invent the ultimate school lunch or snack combo, what wacky but delicious foods would be on the menu?
Curious Question:
Ask: "What funny name would you write on the lunch menu for it?"
Hidden Talent #05
Secret Fact or Skill
What is one cool fact, unique hobby, or quirky talent about you that most classmates in this room probably don't know yet?
Active Echo:
Repeat back what you heard: "So something cool about you is..."
Hopes & Dreams #06
4th Grade Time Capsule
Fast-forward to the very last day of 4th grade. What is one new skill or exciting memory you hope you will have accomplished?
Goal Supporter:
Ask: "What is one small step you can take in the first month to start?"
Directions: Cut along dashed lines. Take turns drawing a card, answering fully, and practicing the partner action!
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Deck 2 • Grade 4 Inclusion & Kindness
Friendship Sparks: Kindness Bridges
Social Skills Rule
Include others & lift them up!
Inclusion #07
The Welcoming Invite
If you see a classmate sitting alone at recess or during independent work, what is a friendly, low-pressure way to invite them over?
Role-Play Practice:
Act it out right now! Say your friendly invitation words directly to your partner.
Character #08
Qualities of a True Friend
Which trait do you value most in a friend: honesty, great listening, making you laugh, or standing up for others? Explain why.
Dig Deeper:
Partner asks: "Can you share an example of someone who showed you that trait?"
Empathy #09
Tough Day Bounce-Back
When you're having an off day or feeling stressed, what is one kind thing a friend or teacher can do that helps you feel supported?
Friendship File:
Keep this in mind! Say: "I will remember that if you ever need a boost."
Kindness Ripple #10
Random Acts of Kindness
Tell about a time someone did an unexpected kindness for you (shared a snack, held a door, or gave a compliment). How did it feel?
Pay It Forward:
Partner asks: "What is one quick kind act we could do for someone today?"
Problem Solving #11
Playground Compromise
Two friends disagree on whether to play four-square or soccer at recess. What is a peaceful, fair solution where both people win?
Win-Win Brainstorm:
Work with your partner to name 2 different fair compromise strategies.
Support #12
Mistake Cheerleader
When a classmate answers a question incorrectly in front of the whole class and looks embarrassed, what can you do to make them feel safe?
Encouragement Phrase:
Tell your partner a friendly phrase you can whisper: "Great effort, we learn together!"
Directions: Cut along dashed lines. Focus on listening without interrupting before reading the partner action!
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Deck 3 • Grade 4 Turn-Taking & Clarity
Friendship Sparks: Communication Masters
Social Skills Rule
Speak clearly & ask curious questions!
Common Ground #13
Common Ground Mission
Ask each other rapid-fire questions about favorite books, foods, music, or pets until you discover ONE surprising thing you both share!
Celebration Touch:
Once you discover your match, do a quick double-tap desktop celebration!
Body Language #14
Body Language Clues
How can you tell someone is genuinely listening to you without them uttering a single word? Name 3 distinct body language cues.
Pose Challenge:
Strike your best "focused listener" pose for 5 seconds while your partner speaks.
Patience #15
Taming the Interrupt Bug
Why is it hard to hold in an exciting idea while another person is speaking? What mental trick helps you wait for your turn?
Strategy Swap:
Share: Do you cross your fingers, take a slow breath, or visualize your idea?
Friendly Debate #16
Would You Rather?
Would you rather have a classroom pet hamster with tiny wings OR a classroom library where books read themselves aloud in silly voices?
Opinion Question:
Partner asks: "What was the main reason you picked that one over the other?"
Curious Follow-Up #17
The "Why" Detective
Share your favorite season of the year and 2 reasons why. Your partner must ask a thoughtful follow-up starting with "How" or "Why"!
Follow-Up Master:
Partner asks: "Why do you think that season brings back such good memories?"
Team Promise #18
The 4th Grade Pledge
What is one personal promise you want to make to our classroom this year to help everyone feel included, heard, and respected?
Friendship Handshake:
Invent a simple, quiet 2-step friendship handshake with your partner to seal the pledge!
Directions: Cut along dashed lines. Laminate for long-lasting use in morning meetings and stations!
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