Role-Playing Problems

Context and Overview

This is Lesson 6 of 8 in the unit “Workplace Problem Solving” designed for Entry Level 3 learners (aged 16-25) with SEND, focusing on employability and life skills. This interactive session uses role-play scenarios to develop learners’ ability to identify, analyse, and resolve common workplace problems safely and respectfully.

National Curriculum Alignment

The lesson is designed in alignment with the National Curriculum for England and related frameworks for post-16 SEND learning, including:

Employability skills and Personal Development (QCF & ELC frameworks): Developing problem-solving skills, effective communication, and teamwork
Functional Skills (English / Communication): Speaking and listening skills during collaborative role-play
Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education (PSHE): Building resilience, confidence, and social awareness in a workplace context
Employability and work skills standards for Entry Level 3 (e.g., City & Guilds Level 1 Employability qualifications)

Learning Outcomes

WALT:

We are learning to confidently identify and respond to workplace problems using role-play
We are learning to work with others to find solutions and practise communication skills
We are learning to follow step-by-step problem-solving procedures in safe simulated scenarios

Success Criteria:

I can describe a simple workplace problem in my role
I can suggest a solution to a problem during my role-play
I can listen and respond respectfully to others in my group
I can follow the problem-solving steps we have previously learned
I can reflect on what worked well and what I could improve

Resources Needed

Role-play scenario cards (related to workplace problems appropriate to learners’ experience)
Printed “Problem-Solving Steps” posters laminated for classroom display
Whiteboard and markers
Clipboards and worksheets (for peer feedback)
Timer or stopwatch
Visual communication aids (symbols, word banks)
Rewards/stickers for motivation

Lesson Breakdown (60 minutes)

Time	Activity	Description	Differentiation	Assessment
0-5 mins	Starter: Quick recap	Recap previous lesson’s problem-solving steps using “Problem-Solving Steps” poster. Use visual flashcards to prompt responses.	Use sentence starters and pictures for learners who need support; challenge advanced learners by asking them to explain steps.	Oral questioning, whole class participation
5-10 mins	Set context & WALT	Clearly explain today’s WALT and success criteria. Model scenario introduction.	Use simple, clear language; repeat key points; encourage questions.	Learners verbalise or point to success criteria
10-20 mins	Group formation & role assignment	Divide into 4 small groups (3 learners per group). Assign roles (e.g., employee, manager, customer) using cards to support choice and clarity. Each group receives a different workplace problem scenario.	Provide extra adult support for groups needing help with role understanding; give more complex role-play cards to advanced learners.	Observation of engagement and understanding during role assignment
20-40 mins	Role-playing activity	Groups act out their scenarios, applying problem-solving steps and practising communication. Teacher circulates, supports and prompts as needed. Use a timer to keep each role-play within 5-7 minutes.	Scaffold scripts for learners who struggle with verbalising; allow some to act with minimal dialogue using gestures or emojis; encourage advanced learners to suggest alternative endings.	Peer feedback worksheets completed after each role-play; teacher notes on problem-solving application
40-50 mins	Group feedback & reflection	Learners discuss how they solved the problem, what worked well, and what was challenging. Use visual prompts to guide reflection.	Use question prompts tailored to ability; encourage one-word or sentence answers for less confident learners; higher ability learners lead discussions.	Group feedback recorded on whiteboard
50-60 mins	Plenary and extension	Summarise key learning points; ask learners to share one thing they will remember about problem-solving in the workplace. Extension for advanced learners: write a short plan of how they would handle a new unscored problem scenario independently.	Support learners with sentence frames; allow use of symbols or drawings; provide extension writing/stroke support.	Plenary sharing; check extension task completion for advanced learners

Differentiation Strategies

Use visual supports and clear, simple language for learners with communication difficulties
Sentence starters and role scripts to support verbal expression
Multi-sensory approaches: gesture, drawing, symbols, and written prompts
Additional adult support where needed
Higher order questioning and extended role-play for advanced learners
Peer support and buddying strategies to boost confidence

Extension Activities for Advanced Learners

Create their own workplace problem scenario card and write a dialogue applying problem-solving steps
Lead a mini role-play session demonstrating problem-solving for the class
Reflective journaling of past real workplace experiences related to problem-solving
Present alternative solutions and consequences with rationale

Assessment for Learning

Observation of learner participation and application of problem-solving
Peer and self-assessment using structured feedback forms
Oral contributions during reflection
Teacher feedback to consolidate understanding and target next steps

Notes for Teachers

Emphasise safe, respectful behaviour during role-plays
Model positive feedback and problem-solving language carefully
Use real-life workplace contexts relevant to the learners’ experiences to boost engagement
Adapt scenarios regularly to meet changing learner needs and interests
Celebrate all attempts at problem-solving to build confidence and motivation

This lesson will encourage learners to apply skills actively, preparing them for real workplace challenges with confidence and resilience in a supportive environment.