Trophies

Intentional Close
An intentional close makes space for participants to reflect on their learning and progress, assess their level of confidence, and identify personal next steps. It encourages participants to recognize the contributions they and others have made to the meeting or learning session and highlights the importance of the work.
Description

Members of a small group nominate each other for imaginary trophies, highlighting one another’s contributions. This lighthearted activity can be used at the end of a group activity or project to strengthen a sense of belonging and bring greater awareness to the range of ways team members add value.

When and Why

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This closing creates a moment for strengthening relationships and reflecting on the social and emotional skills that team members bring. Use this practice frequently as a fun, predictable way to close out a collaborative activity. This activity works best when the group has built familiarity with one another already and has had some practice giving and receiving accolades.

How to Facilitate

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  1. Reflect on the current context, the demographics of participants, and the purpose of this practice. Consider the dynamics among the small groups you have set up, and whether they may need subtle support to give an authentic compliment to any of their team members.
  2. Create a slide or poster with enough “trophies” for each team member within a group. Our favorites are described below, but add to or adjust these to match up with the team member skills and qualities that are most meaningful for your group and the work they have done together.
    • The Curiosity Trophy – awarded to the team member who raised curious questions and listened so that they could better understand.
    • The Problem-Solver Trophy – awarded to the team member who helped the group overcome a challenge.
    • The Perspective Trophy – awarded to the team member who invited others to share their perspective or helped the group think outside the box.
    • The Agency Trophy – awarded to the team member who made sure the group did their best work to create something impactful.
    • The Social Trophy – awarded to the team member who helped the group build relationships and made everyone feel welcome.
  3. Display the slide or poster and give each group time to determine which team member earned each trophy. These are not actual trophies — the joy in being recognized for their unique contribution to the team is the reward here!
  4. To conclude the activity, briefly recognize the winners of each award. If you have several small groups working simultaneously, just ask the winners of each award stand as their trophy is named.
  5. Write a few notes for yourself after the activity, especially about students who may not be frequently recognized for their positive contributions. Follow up with a positive interaction, letting them know you noticed what their peers said about them as a team member, and consider sharing a positive note with a parent or caregiver.

Modification

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Strengthen social and self awareness by using some of the trophies regularly, so students know what to expect and what to watch for, but also keep the activity fresh by adding new trophies to your list from time to time.

How does Trophies support SEL?

Social Awareness/Belonging:
Participants are encouraged to understand the perspectives of and empathize with others, including those from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and contexts. Facilitators create an experience of acceptance, respect, and inclusion within a group or community.

Relationships/Collaborative Problem-Solving:
Participants have the opportunity to establish and maintain healthy and supportive relationships within the group. Facilitators create an activity where participants can recognize one another's knowledge, skills, and efforts.
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