Core Skills Analysis
PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education)
The student reflected on how to build good relationships and listed the features of a good friendship. They identified qualities such as trust, empathy, active listening, and mutual respect, and explained why each is important. By articulating these traits, the student demonstrated an understanding of the social skills needed for healthy peer connections. Their work showed they could evaluate their own behaviour and consider how to apply these principles in everyday interactions.
Tips
1. Role‑play common friendship scenarios and have the student practice using empathy statements and conflict‑resolution language. 2. Create a "Friendship Journal" where they record daily interactions that illustrate the qualities they described, followed by brief reflections. 3. Organise a small‑group project where students design a poster or digital infographic that visualises the five key features of a good friendship, encouraging collaborative research and presentation skills. 4. Invite a local community mentor (e.g., youth worker) to lead a discussion on real‑world examples of maintaining long‑distance friendships and coping with peer pressure.
Book Recommendations
- Wonder by R.J. Palacio: A middle‑grade novel that explores kindness, empathy, and the power of friendship through the experiences of a boy with a facial difference.
- Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo: A heart‑warming story about a young girl who forms a bond with a stray dog, teaching lessons about trust, loyalty, and community friendship.
- The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate: A moving tale of a gorilla who learns about companionship, cooperation, and standing up for friends, encouraging discussions about empathy and advocacy.
Learning Standards
- Key Stage 2 PSHE – Relationships and Relationships Education: Understand the characteristics of a good friendship (NC2023 PSHE 2.1).
- Key Stage 2 English – Speaking and Listening: Discuss ideas and opinions about friendship using appropriate language (NC2023 English 2.3).
- Key Stage 2 Personal Development – Social Skills: Identify and practice empathy and respectful communication (NC2023 PD 2.4).
Try This Next
- Worksheet: Match friendship qualities (e.g., trust, respect) with real‑life examples; include a short reflection column.
- Quiz: Multiple‑choice questions on how to respond when a friend feels sad, angry, or left out; include scenario‑based prompts.