Step by Step - Toolkit Promoting Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) in Children and Teens | Grades 7 and 8 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 Grade 7 and 8

Adolescence is a stage of rapid growth and development. The start of puberty, around age 11, triggers a series of physical, hormonal, psychological, and social changes that may be stressful not only for teens, but also for their teachers or guardians. Given that teens look to their peers as a point of reference, parents and teachers may have a hard time communicating with them.

Unlike younger children, teens seem to be more focused on themselves, while at the same time constantly worrying a great deal about what their friends may think. They are trying to establish their autonomy, learn who they are and what they value, and develop new skills that help them interact socially, and specifically in sentimental relationships. Thus, teens develop the ability to understand themselves and others as they move from youth to adulthood.

The Step by Step lessons for grades 7 and 8 encourage the development of specific social and emotional skills that have been documented to stimulate positive development and prevent problematic behaviors common among teens.  Although the challenges they face and the skills they need to develop are relatively similar throughout this time (grades 7 through 11), there are some significant differences. These lessons are designed to support them in this process, helping them to explore who they are and who they would like to be, how they relate to others, and how to make good decisions at this time in their lives.

Role of the Teacher

The teacher’s job in Grades 7 and 8 is supporting teens in understanding who they are and what they value to help them avoid dependence on the excessive influence of their peer group and develop their own identities, which they will take with them into adulthood.

RESOURCES