When making decisions, it might be wise to revise Newton's Third Law of Motion to read, "For every decision, there are options and consequences." Although in decision-making, not all these forces may be equal. The third instructional activity in the Decision-Making module asks middle schoolers to consider the options and consequences before making an important decision. Presented with several scenarios, participants identify the options available, the pros and cons of the consequences, make a decision, and then share their reasoning with the class.

Concepts

social-emotional learning, responsible decision-making, making decisions, consequences, responsibility, Social & Emotional Learning

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Instructional Ideas

• Ask class members to use the "Make It Easy" worksheet and list the options and consequences for a decision they are currently considering

Classroom Considerations

• Fourth of five lessons in the Decision-Making module
• Lessons are designed to be taught in order
• Requires copies of two activity sheets for each participant

Pros

• The activities model the importance of reflecting before deciding
• A link to an overview of the module is provided in the Included Materials section

Cons

• None