Students participate in discussions that provide a forum for peers to share life experiences and personal challenges, while employing problem solving processes and developing effective self-expression skills.  This class provides practical solutions for understanding unstated rules in social situations.  Through uses of role-playing, social stories, and group interaction the class focuses on continuing to build and strengthen the foundations of effective communication. Effective communication mechanics will be encouraged in a positive affirming atmosphere.  Students will learn the characteristics of passive, aggressive and assertive behaviors, and how to deal with life’s situations in a healthy way. They will also increase their skills in understanding body language and facial expressions, analyzing different social interactions and how they can be misinterpreted.  Students also learn to recognize and express feelings in positive ways and learn how to relax in today’s busy world using a variety of activities to increase vocabulary and verbal expressions.