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Calm Signals

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Lesson Plan

Signal System Blueprint

Student will co-create and practice a personalized discreet signal system to request support non-disruptively during class.

This lesson empowers the student with a personalized, discreet support signal to self-advocate without interrupting class flow, boosting independence, confidence, and timely assistance.

Audience

6th Grade Student

Time

20 minutes

Approach

Collaborative modeling and practice

Materials

Prep

Review Materials

5 minutes

Step 1

Introduction & Purpose

3 minutes

  • Explain that today you'll design a discreet signal they can use when they need help without interrupting class.
  • Present the Silent Support Slides to illustrate examples of discreet cues.
  • Discuss how this system fosters independence and ensures timely support.

Step 2

Co-create Signals

5 minutes

  • Ask the student to brainstorm 3 ideas for simple, discreet signals (e.g., finger taps, card flips).
  • Use the Choose Your Signal Card worksheet to sketch or list their top signal options.
  • Collaborate to select the final signal and agree on its meaning and usage rules.

Step 3

Model & Practice

7 minutes

  • Role-play common classroom scenarios using the selected signal from Choose Your Signal Card.
  • Teacher models responding appropriately when the signal is used.
  • Student practices initiating the signal; teacher provides positive feedback and refines usage.

Step 4

Reflection & Adjustment

5 minutes

  • Ask the student how the signal felt in practice: Was it easy to use? Discreet enough?
  • Make any necessary tweaks to the signal or its implementation.
  • Confirm the final signal, document it on their card, and outline next steps for in-class use.
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Slide Deck

Silent Support Signals

Welcome! Today we’ll explore how to request help quietly, without disrupting the class. You’ll co-create your own discreet signal to use whenever you need support.

Introduce the concept and set the stage. Keep energy upbeat to engage the student.

Why Use Silent Signals?

• Maintain focus: Continue learning without interruptions
• Preserve confidence: Get help privately
• Build independence: Self-advocate effectively

Highlight why we need these signals. Emphasize independence and confidence.

Examples of Silent Signals

• Finger tap on desk
• Quiet card flip (green/red)
• Small hand gesture (thumb to palm)
• Placing a colored sticker on notebook

Offer a variety of simple, low-key examples. Use visuals or gestures as you describe.

How to Use Your Signal

  1. Choose your preferred signal (e.g., finger tap)
  2. Agree with your teacher on when and how to use it
  3. Use the signal only when you need support
  4. Wait calmly while the teacher acknowledges

Explain the rules for using the signal. Clarify meaning and expectations.

Teacher Response Expectations

• Spot the signal within 5 seconds
• Acknowledge with a nod or brief gesture
• Provide help quietly (whisper, side conversation)
• Ensure student feels supported and confident

Guide teacher behaviors. Emphasize quick recognition and discrete response.

Next Steps & Practice

• Brainstorm your own 3 discreet signals
• Use the "Choose Your Signal Card" to sketch them
• Role-play scenarios in the next activity

Close the slide deck and prepare for hands-on work with the student.

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Worksheet

Choose Your Signal Card

Instructions: Brainstorm three discreet signals. Sketch or describe each idea below.

  1. Signal Idea #1:






  2. Signal Idea #2:






  3. Signal Idea #3:






Final Signal Choice

Which idea will you use? Why?











Usage Agreement

When and how will you use this signal in class?








Student Name: ____________________ Date: ___________

Teacher Name: ____________________ Date: ___________

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Activity

Signal Role-Play Activity

Objective: Practice using your chosen discreet signal in realistic classroom scenarios and refine your use.

Materials: Choose Your Signal Card

Instructions

  1. Review your Final Signal Choice and Usage Agreement on your card.
  2. We will role-play three common classroom situations. For each:
    • Teacher: Read the scenario aloud and set the stage.
    • Student: When you “need help,” use your discreet signal.
    • Teacher: Spot the signal within 5 seconds, respond quietly (nod, whisper), and provide the support agreed upon.
    • Debrief: Spend 1–2 minutes reflecting on how it felt.

Scenarios

Scenario 1: Stuck on a Math Problem

  • Teacher says: “Imagine you’re working on a tricky fraction problem and can’t figure out the next step.”
  • Prompt: “Show me your signal when you need a hint.”
  • Debrief Question: How easy was it to use your signal?



Scenario 2: Unclear on Instructions

  • Teacher says: “You hear me explain the group activity, but you’re not sure what to do first.”
  • Prompt: “Use your signal to ask for clarification.”
  • Debrief Question: Did the teacher’s response feel discreet and helpful?



Scenario 3: Feeling Anxious About Participating

  • Teacher says: “I’m calling on volunteers, and you feel nervous to answer aloud.”
  • Prompt: “Use your signal if you’d like me to talk with you quietly before you share.”
  • Debrief Question: Did using the signal help reduce your anxiety?



Reflection & Next Steps

  1. What felt easy or challenging about using your signal?





  2. What changes, if any, would make the signal work better?





  3. Confirm any tweaks and sign off:
    • Student Signature: ____________________ Date: ___________
    • Teacher Signature: ____________________ Date: ___________
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