Lesson Plan
All In! Class Belonging Lesson Plan
Students will explore the meaning of classroom belonging, express their own identity, and collaboratively define ways to foster an inclusive community.
A strong sense of belonging helps 4th graders feel safe, respected, and engaged—boosting confidence and collaboration throughout the school year.
Audience
4th Grade Students
Time
30 minutes
Approach
Hands-on identity activities and group discussions foster connection.
Materials
- Class Belonging Poster, - Belonging Scenario Cards, - Name-Tag Templates, - Sticky Notes, - Colored Markers, and - Chart Paper
Prep
Prepare Materials
10 minutes
- Print and laminate the Class Belonging Poster.
- Print and cut the Belonging Scenario Cards.
- Make copies of the Name-Tag Templates.
- Arrange sticky notes, markers, and chart paper at each table.
- Review all generated materials and familiarize yourself with discussion prompts.
Step 1
Welcome & Define Belonging
5 minutes
- Display the Class Belonging Poster at the front of class.
- Ask: “What does ‘belonging’ mean?” and record definitions on chart paper.
- Highlight key phrases (e.g., feeling safe, being accepted).
Step 2
Create Identity Name-Tags
7 minutes
- Distribute Name-Tag Templates, markers, and sticky notes.
- Instruct students to write their name and draw or list 2–3 things that make them unique.
- Encourage colorful designs and sharing at their seats.
Step 3
Scenario Discussions
10 minutes
- Divide class into groups of 4 and give each group a set of Belonging Scenario Cards.
- Students take turns reading a card (e.g., “A new student joins your team”).
- Groups discuss and jot down on sticky notes how they would help everyone feel included.
- Rotate cards so each group explores at least two scenarios.
Step 4
Build Our Belonging Poster
6 minutes
- Provide each group with colored markers and chart paper.
- Groups write one or two key actions that foster belonging (from their sticky notes).
- Invite groups to post their chart-paper section on a wall to create a large class poster.
Step 5
Wrap-Up Reflection
2 minutes
- Gather attention and highlight 2–3 ideas from the class poster.
- Ask students to share one personal takeaway or promise to help classmates feel they belong.
- Reinforce that everyone’s contribution makes the classroom stronger.
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Slide Deck
All In! Class Belonging
Objective:
• Understand what “belonging” means
• Share what makes each of us unique
• Collaborate to create a welcoming classroom poster
Welcome the class to our lesson on belonging. Introduce yourself and explain that today we’ll explore what it means to belong and build our classroom community together.
Materials
• Class Belonging Poster see poster
• Belonging Scenario Cards see cards
• Name-Tag Templates see templates
• Sticky Notes, Colored Markers, Chart Paper
Quickly review the materials needed. Point out where students can find the poster, scenario cards, and name-tag templates in the room.
What Is Belonging?
- Look at our poster.
- Think: What does “belonging” mean?
- Share your thoughts—one word or phrase.
Display the Class Belonging Poster at the front. Ask students to offer definitions of “belonging.” Record their responses on chart paper and highlight key phrases: feeling safe, being accepted, part of a group.
Create Identity Name-Tags
- Write your name.
- Draw or list 2–3 things that make you unique.
- Decorate it with colors and symbols.
Hand out name-tag templates, markers, and sticky notes. Encourage creativity; guide students who need help generating ideas. Circulate to prompt sharing.
Scenario Discussions
- In groups of 4, pick a scenario card.
- Read it aloud (e.g., “A new student joins your team”).
- Discuss: How can we help everyone feel included?
- Write ideas on sticky notes.
Divide students into groups of four. Give each group a set of scenario cards. Model how to read a card, discuss inclusion strategies, and jot ideas on sticky notes. Rotate cards after 3–4 minutes.
Build Our Belonging Poster
- On chart paper, write one or two key actions.
- Add drawings or symbols that show inclusion.
- Post your section on the classroom wall.
Provide chart paper and markers to each group. Ask groups to select 1–2 top ideas from their sticky notes. Guide them to write neatly and decorate their section.
Reflection & Promise
- Highlight top ideas from our class poster.
- Share one personal takeaway or promise.
- Remember: We all make this classroom stronger!
Gather students in a circle. Highlight 2–3 standout ideas from the big poster. Ask volunteers to share one promise they’ll make to help classmates feel they belong. Close with a positive affirmation.
Reading
Class Belonging Poster
What Does “Belonging” Mean?
Belonging means feeling like you are part of a group where you are valued, accepted, and safe. When we belong, we know that our ideas matter and our friends have our back.
Why Belonging Matters
- Confidence: We feel brave to share ideas.
- Kindness: We treat each other with respect.
- Teamwork: We work better together on projects and games.
How We Show Belonging
• We listen when a classmate speaks.
• We include others in games and conversations.
• We celebrate each other’s unique talents.
• We use friendly words and actions.
Your Turn: Think & Share
What does belonging feel like to you? Write or draw one moment when you felt you truly belonged in a group.
Activity
Belonging Scenario Cards
Use these cards in groups of 4. Read each scenario and jot ideas on sticky notes.
- 🧑🎓 New Student:
“A new student joins your group during a class project. How can you help them feel welcome and part of the team?” - 🤫 Quiet Classmate:
“One person in your group is very quiet and hasn’t shared any ideas yet. What can you do so they feel comfortable speaking up?” - 🍽️ Lunchtime Table:
“You notice someone sitting alone at the lunch table. What could you say or do to invite them to join you?” - ⚽ Playground Game:
“A group of friends is playing a game, but one child is standing outside the circle watching. How can you make sure everyone gets to play?” - 💬 Group Discussion:
“During story time, one student always speaks first and others don’t get a turn. How can you help everyone share their thoughts?” - 🎨 Different Interests:
“A classmate loves drawing while you love sports and they feel left out of your conversation. How can you include their interests?” - ❌ Mistake in Front of Class:
“A peer answers a question incorrectly and looks embarrassed. What can you do to encourage them?” - 👥 New Seatmate:
“You’re assigned a new seatmate who seems shy. What questions can you ask to get to know them and help them belong?”
Activity
Name-Tag Template
Name: ____________________________
My Unique Qualities: (Draw or write 2–3 things that make you special)
Decorate Your Tag: Use colors, symbols, or small drawings around the border to show your personality!
Cool Down
Belonging Reflection Exit Ticket
Take a moment to think about today’s lesson and share your thoughts below.
- Something new I learned about belonging today:
- One action I will take tomorrow to help someone feel they belong:
- When I felt I truly belonged in class today was when: