Graduate Project

Social Emotional Learning and The Effects on Academic Performance in Elementary School Students

Social emotional learning (SEL) has shown to be beneficial to not only mental health but it also improves academic performance. Research shows that students who participate in SEL gain an increase in academic performance, reduced rates of aggression and increased behavioral competencies. The purpose of this project was to introduce SEL into inclusive classrooms by making SEL accessible to all learners through the use of Universal Design for Learning and Gradual Release of Responsibility. Research supports the benefits SEL bring to the classroom, yet it is not vastly implemented. Students with disabilities especially have a harder time grasping social emotional cues and so explicit SEL can benefit this population immensely. In many ways, these students do not get to participate because lessons are either not differentiated for them or they are participating in pull out services. This project is to be carried out in elementary school from grades K-5. The lessons are easily adaptable, include differentiated lessons, and adapted worksheets. This can also be used as a pacing guide for educators looking to implement SEL into their classrooms.

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