In order to get students to think about consequences first when faced with a decision, they are going to have to practice the process of making decisions. The reward system is developed in their brain, but not the consequences aspect among teenagers. Instant gratification rules their perspective. This decision making chart will help them put things into perspective.
Have students brainstorm some of their own decisions they made recently or ones they will face soon. In this activity, students will fill in the template and break down their own decisions and how they made the choice.
Step One: List the choices
Step Two: Weigh out the consequences
Step Three: Look for resources, if possible
Step Four: Choose a solution
Step Five: Reflect on the decision
A follow-up activity to this can be to have a "think-pair-share" exercise. Allowing students to reflect on their peers' decision-making will help to build a "consequence first" thinking environment, and they may also be able to take inspiration from each other.
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Student Instructions
Create a storyboard showing a decision-making model of a real or imagined decision.
Encourage students to share their decision-making experiences in a supportive environment. Fostering open dialogue helps students reflect on various outcomes and learn from each other’s perspectives.
Establish ground rules for respect, listening, and confidentiality so students feel safe sharing their thoughts. Clear expectations promote honest and productive conversations.
Use thought-provoking prompts like “What made you choose that option?” or “How might things have turned out differently?” Open questions encourage deeper thinking and engagement.
Share a personal example of a decision you made, highlighting the process and consequences. Modeling demonstrates vulnerability and sets the tone for meaningful sharing.
Guide students to offer supportive feedback by focusing on what they noticed or learned, rather than judging choices. Positive feedback builds trust and enhances learning.
A simple decision making process for students involves listing choices, weighing consequences, looking for resources, choosing a solution, and reflecting on the outcome. This step-by-step approach helps students consider the impact of their choices before acting.
To teach decision making skills to grades 6-12, use activities like decision making charts, brainstorming real-life decisions, and think-pair-share exercises. Guide students to break down decisions, weigh consequences, and reflect on outcomes for deeper learning.
The classroom decision making model includes: 1) List choices, 2) Weigh consequences, 3) Identify resources, 4) Choose a solution, and 5) Reflect on the decision. Visual aids and templates can make these steps clearer for students.
Considering consequences helps students develop critical thinking and self-control. It encourages them to move beyond instant gratification, fostering better social-emotional skills and more thoughtful decision making in daily life.
A think-pair-share activity involves students reflecting individually on a decision, discussing with a partner, and then sharing insights with the class. This method builds a consequence-first mindset and encourages peer learning.