Grades K-1
- In this lesson, students learned the differences between tattling and reporting and when it is appropriate to report something to an adult. The lesson began with the story, "Tattlin' Madeline" by Carol Cummings. Next, we discussed the differences between tattling and reporting using the chart above, followed by scenarios in which students gave a thumbs up if they thought it was reporting and a thumbs down if they thought it was tattling. Students were also given an introduction to "I Messages" using the Bug and Wish talking sticks from above. Starting with the bug, students say "It bugs me when..." and they state the problem (e.g., It bugs me when you don't share with me). Next, using the star, students say "I wish..." and state what they wish would happen (e.g., I wish you would share some of the blocks with me). This is an effective communication tool for students to resolve conflicts on their own, rather than tattling to the teacher. It gives them appropriate stems to begin talking about their feelings and introduces them to "I Messages." The talking sticks are great tools to leave in the classroom for students to use whenever a conflict arises!
- Students in 2nd grade received the same lesson as above, however, the activities varied slightly. Specifically, rather than discussing the scenarios as a whole group, students were given the cut and sort activity from above. They worked independently and then we reviewed the answers as a whole group. Additionally, the class received their own "tattle monster," which is an outlet for students who simply want to get their feelings out without tattling. They are able to write their tattles on a piece of paper and "feed" them to the tattle monster!