Deliberative Processes SEL

In this 90 minute lesson, students will develop SEL skills such as responsible decision-making, self-management, and relationships skills while learning about deliberative processes. At the beginning of the lesson, students will complete an exercise that checks for prior knowledge of key vocabulary words. After reviewing the definitions of those words, the class will work together to use the terms to classify scenarios as different types of deliberative processes. Next, the class will work together to brainstorm a set of norms for classroom discussions. Once a list of norms has been established, students will complete a brief assignment explaining which deliberative processes were used to create that list, as well as noting if how well they participated in the discussion to create the list. Students will use the class set of discussion norms to participate in a Fishbowl activity. Students will use the Fishbowl strategy to discuss two hypothetical scenarios of issues in local government. After the conclusion of the Fishbowl activity, students will complete a reflection. Answer keys for all activities are included.  This lesson is aligned to the Common Core Standards for History/Social Studies and the Ohio State Content Standards for American Government.