Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v5 - Grade 6

Lesson Video

This page supports the lesson note with a companion video and a short classroom-ready summary.

For class groups and homework, share this lesson page so learners also get the summary, objectives, and full lesson context.

Performance objectives

• Define 'conflict' and identify its common causes.
• Describe different ways to resolve conflict.
• Practice active listening and assertive communication.
• Know when to ask a trusted adult for help.

Lesson summary

Conflict is a natural part of life. We encounter disagreements with family, friends, classmates, and even strangers. How we deal with these conflicts is crucial, especially as young South Africans navigating a diverse and sometimes challenging society. Understanding conflict resolution skills will help learners build stronger relationships, create safer environments at school and at home, and become responsible citizens who can contribute to a more peaceful society. Learning to manage conflict effectively promotes emotional well-being and fosters a sense of belonging.

Lesson notes

What is Conflict? Conflict is a disagreement or struggle between two or more people who have different needs, wants, values, or beliefs. It can be something small, like arguing over who gets to play with a toy, or something bigger, like a disagreement about sharing resources in the community. Conflict is not always bad. It can actually lead to positive changes and new solutions if handled properly.

Common Causes of Conflict: Misunderstandings: Sometimes, conflicts arise because people misunderstand each other. This can happen when communication is unclear or assumptions are made.

Example:* Ayanda thought Zola was ignoring her, but Zola was just busy helping her grandmother.

Different Needs and Wants: People have different needs and wants, and sometimes these can clash.

Example:* Sipho wants to play soccer, but Thando wants to play cricket. They have different preferences for their free time.

Limited Resources: Conflicts can arise when there are not enough resources to go around. This could be anything from food and water to attention and space.

Example:* Two children fighting over the last slice of bread.

Different Values and Beliefs: People have different values and beliefs, and these can sometimes lead to conflict.

Example:* A disagreement about whether or not to participate in a certain cultural activity.

Bullying: Intentionally hurting or intimidating someone is a form of conflict, and it is never acceptable. Bullying can be physical, verbal, or social.

Conflict Resolution Strategies: Avoidance: This means ignoring the conflict or pretending it doesn't exist. Sometimes, this is okay if the conflict is minor or you need time to calm down.

However, avoiding conflict can often make things worse in the long run because the underlying problem doesn't get resolved.

Example:* Two learners are arguing quietly in the back of the class. The teacher chooses to ignore it, hoping it will stop on its own.

Compromise: This means that each person gives up something in order to reach an agreement. It's a "win-win" situation where both people get some of what they want, but not everything.

Example:* Sarah wants to watch cartoons, and David wants to play a game. They compromise by watching cartoons for 30 minutes and then playing a game for 30 minutes.

Collaboration: This means working together to find a solution that meets the needs of both people. It requires good communication and a willingness to listen to each other's perspectives.

Example:* Two learners are arguing about who gets to use the art supplies. They collaborate by deciding to share the supplies and work together on a project.

Accommodation: This means giving in to the other person's needs or wants, even if it means sacrificing your own. This can be a good strategy if the relationship is more important than the issue at hand.

However, it's important not to accommodate all the time, as it can lead to resentment.

Example:* You really want to play a game, but your friend is feeling sick and wants to rest. You accommodate their needs and offer to keep them company quietly.

Competition: This means trying to win the conflict at the expense of the other person. This can damage relationships and create resentment. It's generally not a good strategy unless the conflict is a game or sport with clear rules.

Example:* Continuously arguing louder and louder to drown out the other person's opinion. (Not a good example of conflict resolution!) Active Listening and Assertive Communication: Active Listening: Paying close attention to what the other person is saying, both verbally and nonverbally. This means making eye contact, nodding, asking clarifying questions, and summarizing what you've heard to make sure you understand.

Example:* When someone is sharing their feelings, stop what you are doing, look at them, and listen carefully to what they are saying. Avoid interrupting them until they are finished. Then, summarise back what you heard to make sure you understand. "So you are saying you are feeling frustrated because... is that correct?" Assertive Communication: Expressing your needs and wants clearly and respectfully, without being aggressive or passive. This means using "I" statements to express your feelings and needs, and avoiding blaming or attacking the other person.

Example:* Instead of saying "You always make me angry!", say "I feel angry when you do that." When to Seek Help: It's important to know when to seek help from a trusted adult, such as a teacher, parent, or counselor.

This is necessary when: The conflict is escalating and you feel unsafe. You have tried to resolve the conflict on your own but haven't been successful. The conflict involves bullying or harassment. The conflict is causing you significant emotional distress. Guided Practice (With Solutions)

Question 1: Sipho and Thandi are arguing about which game to play during break time. Sipho wants to play soccer, while Thandi wants to play skipping.