As part of the DigiGap project, our Romanian partners recently implemented Session 4, Activity 2 – “Communication Traffic Light” with a group of ten 5th grade students. The activity took place on 11 November 2025 and aimed to enhance students’ awareness of how language and tone influence communication. Using the metaphor of a traffic light, learners explored how different expressions can encourage, confuse, or discourage the receiver.
The session began with a short discussion on how certain words or tones might motivate or demotivate someone in a learning environment. Students were invited to reflect on examples from their daily interactions and share how communication affects their emotions and behaviour.
Each student then received a set of expressions and was tasked with sorting them into three categories:
- Green – encouraging, supportive phrases
- Yellow – neutral or uncertain expressions
- Red – discouraging, harmful, or demotivating language
The children engaged actively with the task, asking questions, debating their choices, and analysing the emotional impact of each expression. Many were surprised to discover that commonly used phrases (especially those spoken in moments of hurry or frustration) fell into the red category. Others enriched the green category by sharing supportive expressions they frequently hear at home or in school.
In the extension phase, students created their own encouraging phrases, practicing the use of positive and respectful communication. This creative moment was filled with enthusiasm, as learners reflected on how they can contribute to a more supportive atmosphere in their classroom.
The overall environment during the workshop was open, friendly, and reflective. At the end of the session, many students noted that the activity helped them understand how tone can completely transform the meaning of a message. They expressed a newfound awareness of how mindful communication can prevent misunderstandings and strengthen relationships.
The activity successfully contributed to the development of students’ socio-emotional skills, while fostering a more positive and supportive communication climate in the classroom.
