What I do is introduce the idea of Relationship Skills: The ability to build positive relationships, especially with diverse individuals and groups. This includes active listening and communication, and conflict resolution skills. Asking and offering help are also hallmarks of relationship skills. I encourage relationship skills in my classroom through lab work. We talk about how we are all scientists in the classroom who value communicating with others, including listening actively, and that when we hit a speed bump, it's time to practice conflict resolution. This includes identifying the issue, sharing our thoughts, identifying if we share the same ideas, offering solutions, and then agreeing to a plan. Believe me, this is not easy at the 7th grade level, but I keep encouraging this practice.
