Step by Step - Toolkit Promoting Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) in Children and Teens | Grades 3 and 4 Curriculum

The Step by Step toolkit, developed by the World Bank with external contributors, aims to equip teachers with resources that can help students from age 6-17 better understand and manage their emotions, thoughts, impulses and behaviors, form and sustain positive relationships, and make the most out of life by making responsible decisions and pursuing meaningful goals. The Step by Step toolkit offers a series of practical lessons and support materials designed to be implemented in the classroom by the teacher. Read more

Challenges in Grades 3 and 4

The Step by Step lessons for grades 3 and 4 are designed to be implemented with children ages 8 and 9. At this point in their development, children have successfully gotten used to attending school, are familiarized with school routines, and have developed a sense of their place in a group. They also have a clearer idea of their social role at school or in the family, and they increasingly value their independence. Their cognitive development allows them to understand more abstract and complex concepts than before.

At this age, not only is the opinion of the teacher important, along with comments and feedback from adults in general; children also need acceptance from their friends and people in their immediate surroundings, such as their family. During this stage, friendships are important. Children begin to prefer to do things on their own, and are capable of recognizing different ways of seeing the world and a greater diversity in people.

Step by Step lessons for grades 3 and 4 are aimed at stimulating students’ development, not only from a cognitive standpoint, but especially from an emotional and social point of view, in such a way that emotions play a lead cross-cutting role. Many of the lessons involve movement and fun activities for children, without losing sight of their pedagogical purpose.

Role of the Teacher

The teacher’s job in Grades 3 and 4 consists of facilitating the lessons, as well as encouraging students to implement and regularly practice the skills we seek to develop. For this to be possible, it is necessary to give them opportunities, instead of simply lecturing them. Rather than transferring knowledge, the teacher proposes activities, stimulates the development of children’s thoughts and emotions, and builds a safe and nurturing learning environment.

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