The I-Messages Game Show

What Others Say

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“My 4th graders loved it. I felt like I tricked them into learning while having fun. There are so many teachable moments that arise while playing… I always find more than one occasion for students to practice I-messages to solve problems that arise during the game. 10/10 would recommend!”
CounselingAndCats
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“My 6th graders were extremely engaged with this game for the entire class period. Very well put together. Can’t wait to play it with my other section next week!”
Brett O.
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“Students loved it! It made the topic really fun- they learned and practiced assertiveness without even realizing it! :)”
Sylvia G.
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I-Message Game Show | Interactive SEL Lesson on Conflict Resolution

Your students will love playing this interactive I-Message lesson! This quiz show style social emotional learning activity makes it fun to learn, practice, and master the skill of making and using I-Statements. Students will walk away with stronger conflict resolution strategies, improved communication skills, and confidence in building positive relationships.

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Why Teach I-Messages?

I-Statements are a core communication tool that helps students express feelings respectfully, reduce conflicts, and strengthen relationships. This hands-on, low-prep SEL lesson gives students the chance to practice I-Messages in a way that’s engaging, memorable, and effective.

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Ways to Use This SEL Activity

• Stand-alone classroom guidance lesson on I-Statements and communication skills

• Small group counseling to support conflict resolution and relationship building

• SEL distance learning, teletherapy, or virtual counseling groups

• School counseling guidance lessons to supplement your conflict resolution program

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What’s Included

✔ Google Slides™ file
✔ PowerPoint™ file
✔ Printable task cards with all challenge prompts (great for screen-free or small group play)
✔ Full counseling lesson plan
✔ 6+ additional low-prep activity formats for flexible lesson planning

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What’s Super Sweet About This I-Message Lesson

• Hands-on & experiential – students learn by role-playing, drawing, and reflecting

• Encourages reflective thinking – helps kids practice empathy and self-control

• Customizable – edit all questions and challenges to meet your students’ needs

• Low-prep – perfect for busy school counselors and teachers

• Includes lesson plan – making it ready to use right away

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Game Show Categories

• ACT IT OUT – Teams role play I-Message scenarios

• TRUE or FALSE – Students test their knowledge about communication strategies

• SKETCH IT – Teams draw their answers to show understanding

• IMAGINE IF – Students respond to creative “what if” problem-solving prompts

• RISK – Surprise challenges that keep the game exciting and unpredictable

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What You Need to Play

• In-person: Use with a Promethean White Board or projector (formatted for Google Slides™ and PowerPoint™)

• Distance learning: Share your screen with students (internet access required)

• Screen-free: Use the included printable task cards for small groups or unplugged play

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Flexible Lesson Options

The full game show takes 40–60 minutes, but over 6 additional activity formats are included for when:

• Class time is shorter

• Technology isn’t available

• Students need quieter, reflective practice

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ASCA Mindsets & Behaviors Covered

• M 1: Belief in development of whole self, including a healthy balance of mental, social/emotional, and physical well-being

• M 3: Sense of belonging in the school environment

• M 6: Positive attitude toward work and learning

• B-LS 2: Demonstrate creativity

• B-SS 2: Create positive and supportive relationships with peers

• B-SS 6: Use effective collaboration and cooperation skills

Looking for other social emotional learning lessons in the quiz show style format?  Be sure to check out other guidance lessons here.  For a super deal, save 50% off with our 53 SEL lesson bundle!