SEL Scenario-Based Assessment

During a group activity, two students begin arguing loudly over roles. One student storms off and refuses to participate. What would be the most SEL-aligned initial response?

• Ignore the argument and let them work it out

• Remove both students from the classroom

• Calmly separate the students and give them time to cool off

• End the group activity for the entire class

Scenario 1: During a group activity, two students begin arguing loudly over roles. One student storms off and refuses to participate. 2. What strategy can help restore classroom safety and support emotional regulation?

• Assign both students extra work

• Provide a quiet corner for de-escalation and check in individually

• Let the class vote on who was right

• Ask the students to apologize immediately in front of the class

Scenario 2: A student who usually performs well becomes disengaged after receiving critical feedback. They avoid eye contact and won't participate. 3. What trauma-informed response supports emotional safety?

• Ask the student to explain why they're not trying

• Provide public praise to motivate them

• Offer a one-on-one check-in and give them a choice to reflect privately

• Remove them from the group for being disrespectful

A student who usually performs well becomes disengaged after receiving critical feedback. They avoid eye contact and won't participate. What strategy helps re-engage the student?

• Assign a zero and move on

• Give the student a new, manageable task and encourage effort

• Ask the class to encourage the student

• Ignore the behavior and continue the lesson

Scenario 3: A student appears anxious before a math test and asks to go to the nurse, but there is no sign of illness. What might be the best initial trauma-sensitive action?

• Tell the student they must stay and complete the test

• Allow a short break and provide reassurance

• Ignore the request to avoid giving special treatment

• Call the parents immediately to pick up the student

Scenario 3: A student appears anxious before a math test and asks to go to the nurse, but there is no sign of illness. 6. What SEL strategy can support students with test anxiety?

• Set a timer to increase focus

• Use calming routines and offer flexible testing conditions

• Remove students with anxiety from testing altogether

• Pair them with a peer for testing support

Helping a student through an emotional or behavioral challenge can involve various strategies. Which of the following is an effective strategy to use in such situations?

• Active listening and providing emotional support

• Ignoring the student's feelings

• Punishing the student immediately

• Avoiding communication with the student

Modifying an SEL approach for a student with ADHD or trauma history involves:

• Providing individualized support and flexibility.

• Strictly following a set curriculum without adjustments.

• Ignoring the student's unique needs.

• Focusing only on academic achievement.

Select the SEL or trauma-informed strategy from this assessment that you see yourself using most in your classroom.

• Building strong student-teacher relationships

• Ignoring students' emotional needs

• Focusing only on academic content

• Using punitive discipline methods

Describe a time you helped a student through an emotional or behavioral challenge. What strategy did you use?