Building Community Through Peer Support

Imani Russell

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Building Community Through Peer Support

Encourage open communication

This lesson introduces students to the concept of Peer Support Circles, where they can share thoughts and feelings in a supportive environment. It aims to build a sense of community and improve communication skills among students. By participating in these circles, students will learn to express themselves openly and listen empathetically to others, fostering a supportive classroom environment.

Audience

Grades 9-12

Time

35 minutes

Approach

Encourage open communication

Materials

Discussion Guide, Reflection Worksheet, Post-it Notes, and Pens

Step 1

Introduction

5 mins

Welcome students and explain the purpose of Peer Support Circles.
Discuss the importance of open communication and community building.
Set ground rules for respectful listening and sharing.

Step 2

Circle Formation

5 mins

Divide students into small groups of 4-5.
Ensure each group has a comfortable space to sit in a circle.

Step 3

Guided Sharing

15 mins

Provide each group with the Discussion Guide.
Encourage students to take turns sharing their thoughts and feelings.
Remind students to listen actively and supportively.

Step 4

Reflection

5 mins

Distribute the Reflection Worksheet to each student.
Ask students to reflect on their experience and what they learned.
Allow time for students to write down their thoughts.

Step 5

Closure

5 mins

Gather students back together as a whole class.
Invite volunteers to share insights or positive experiences from their group.
Reinforce the value of community and support in the classroom.

Discussion

Discussion Guide

A guide to facilitate open and supportive discussions in peer circles.

What is something you are grateful for today?

Encourage students to think about positive aspects of their day and share them with the group.

Is there something on your mind that you would like to share?

Remind students that this is a safe space to express their thoughts and feelings.

How can we support each other better as a group?

Guide students to think about ways to enhance group support and communication.

Worksheet

Reflection Worksheet

A worksheet for students to reflect on their experience in the peer support circle.

What did you learn about yourself during the circle?

Consider how sharing or listening impacted your thoughts.

How did it feel to share and listen in the group?

Reflect on your emotional response to the experience.

What is one thing you will take away from this experience?

Think about a key insight or lesson learned.