Before students can learn about solving conflict, they must understand what conflict resolution entails. Start a dialogue with the class about conflict resolution. Give examples of peaceful and nonpeaceful forms of resolution. For example, you can say that war is a form of violent -- and counterproductive -- conflict resolution, while discussion is safe and civil. Next, ask the students to define the words "passive," "aggressive" and "assertive." Assign a group of students to find the meaning of each term. Have them share their findings and correct them if necessary.
As an investigation activity, instruct the students to to analyze their own everyday lives and identify types of conflicts that they encounter. Split the children into several groups, then ask them to list their coping strategies -- both good and bad. This lets them effectively figure out whether their coping strategies are positive or negative. Finally, have the groups share their discoveries with the class.
Have the groups you assigned to explore the meaning of the terms "passive," "aggressive" and "assertive" conduct role-playing scenarios demonstrating those approaches. Give them predetermined situations to deal with using the strategies, and explain the consequences to them. Finally, ask the students to address the same situations with a peaceful approach, and show them the outcome and its advantages.
With an improvement activity, the purpose is to assess the current classroom environment and point out any areas that require improvement. Write the definitions of "peace," "peaceable" and "community" on a piece of paper for the class to see. Test the students' understanding by asking them to reword the definitions. Next, ask them to explain what a peaceable classroom is like. Emphasize terms like "cooperation," "communication," "respect" and "problem-solving." Instruct the children to evaluate their classroom and see how well it meets those criteria. If any weak areas exist, then have them come up with possible solutions, and list them on another sheet of paper. Create a poster with the suggestions, and place it in the classroom as a constant reminder.