Understanding the concept of respect and developing the ability to show respect in a variety of situations are vital for success in school and throughout life. Circle of Respect® is an educational game specifically designed to teach students (1) the guiding principle that showing respect is the best way to receive respect, and (2) specific ways that they can show respect in four important areas of their lives:  With Classmates,  With Family, At School, and in the Community

As illustrated by the large circle in the center of the board, players learn to identify the situations in which showing respect is important. Issues such as respecting differences and respecting the environment are included. The game is careful not to equate respect with obedience. The players learn that it is acceptable to disagree (including with parents and with adults at school) as long as it is done in a respectful way. Cards demonstrate respectful ways of disagreeing.
Educational games must be challenging and fun as well as a learning experience. In order to achieve all of these goals, the Circle of Respect® box contains two different games. One game is designed for grades 1 and 2, and the second game is designed for grades 3, 4, and 5. Both games use the same board, but the rules and cards are different. There is a set of even-more-challenging rules for advanced 4th and 5th graders. The "Teacher Materials" booklet contains complete lesson plans and explains which game parts are used with each grade level.

During the post-game discussion students link their experience in the game with real life. Students practice reading skills (reading the cards) and math skills (handling the point certificates). Students are challenged to use critical thinking in answering questions and in developing their strategies for playing the game.

Grades 1-5 (Also high interest material for older students and for kindergarten students when the teacher reads the cards). The ability to show respect and earn respect from others is extremely important for career success, and the game is an ideal school-to-career activity.


SCANS Skills Addressed:

Foundation Skills: Thinking Skills, Personal Qualities, Basic Skills
Workplace Competencies: Interpersonal Skills, Systems

Learning Objectives:

1. Understand the concepts of earning respect and showing respect.

2. Learn the basic concept that giving respect leads to receiving respect from others.

3. Learn specific actions that a young person can take to show respect
and earn respect from others.

4. Learn how showing respect (or failing to show respect) affects other people.

5. Learn some positive ways of dealing with disrespect.

6. Learn critical thinking skills by evaluating behaviors as respectful or not respectful.

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