Grades 2–5
Use an I-Message
Learn the I-message: I feel… when… because… I need… Then write one for three real problems.
SEL worksheet · Conflict resolution
How Big Is the Problem?
Sort twelve problems into small (I can fix it), medium (I try a tool or ask a friend) and big (I need a grown-up now).
- Grade level
- Grades 2–4
- Time
- About 20 minutes
- Topic
- Conflict resolution
- Answer key
- Yes, page 2 of the PDF
- Kids practice
- Conflict resolution, I-messages, Compromise, Active listening
What kids do
Printed on the sheet:
- Small problem: I can fix it by myself. Medium problem: I try a tool, like talking it out, or ask a friend for help. Big problem: someone could get hurt, so I tell a grown-up right away.
- Read each problem. Write its number in the right box.
- 1. my pencil broke
- 2. someone cut in line
- 3. I smell smoke
- 4. I lost my eraser
- 5. a stranger asks me to go with them
- 6. a friend won’t share the ball
Teacher tip
Make a class “size of the problem” scale and refer to it during real problems.
How to use it
- Role-play one scenario with a puppet or another adult before kids start.
- Post the steps or tools from the sheet where kids solve problems, like near the door to recess.
- Use it during morning meeting or right after recess, when the topic is fresh.
Watch for
Bullying is not a conflict between equals. Make sure kids know to tell a grown-up about it.
Talk about it
- What could each person do to make the problem smaller?
- Have you ever been in a moment like this? What happened?
Take it further
Set up a peace corner or a peace table with the steps posted.
US Letter, prints well in black and white. Free for home and classroom use: print as many copies as you need.
More conflict resolution worksheets
Grades 2–4
Conflict Tools Match
Match seven conflict tools, like compromise, take turns and cool off, to what each one means.
Grades 2–5
Walk the Peace Path
Number the six steps of the peace path in order, then use them to plan how to solve a playground problem.
Grades 3–5
Pick a Fair Solution
Read six conflict scenarios and circle the solution that is fair to everyone.
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