Highs and Lows
The Goal: The purpose of this exercise is to remind students that all of life contains both positives and negatives; life is never “all good” or “all bad.” This exercise is a good icebreaker for the first few sessions, when students are still getting a feel for the group.
SEL
RAMP (ASCA) Mindset & Behaviors addressed and developed: Academic: Presenting; Concepts Comprehension. Career: Communication; Listening; Presenting; Empathy; Collaboration/Cooperation; Teamwork. Social/Emotional: Whole Self; Self Confidence; Sense of Belonging; Positive Attitude; Self Discipline/Control; Coping Skills; Supportive Relationships; Empathy; Self Advocacy; Social Maturity.
Materials
- Circle of chairs
- Indigo Reports
Facilitator should do all suggested exercises first to show the “safety” of the group
Step 1: Have the students sit in a circle. Each student takes a turn sharing one low from their week (something that made them sad, frustrated, or angry) and one high (something good that happened). Try to limit each person’s turn to one minute each.
An Example: “One low from my week was when I received a poor grade on my math test. One high from my week was when I went to the movies with my friends.”
You can use pages on the Indigo Report such as the Communication Do’s and Don’ts to highlight examples of high and low points during interactions or help them brainstorm. You can also use a hacky sack or soft object that students to throw to the next participant.
Note: Some of our SEL facilitators do a quick round of Highs and Lows before each session.