Can I Say No?

Shaneira DaSilva

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Assertive Communication Lesson Plan

Empower 10th grade students to confidently say 'No' and set healthy boundaries through assertiveness training.

Developing assertive communication skills boosts self-esteem and equips students with the ability to navigate challenging social situations effectively.

Audience

10th Grade Students

Time

30 Minutes

Approach

Interactive exercises and reflective discussions.

Materials

Assertive Communication Lesson Plan, Saying No Practice Worksheet, and Confidence Boost Reflection

Prep

Preparation

10 Minutes

Review the Assertive Communication Lesson Plan for key concepts.
Familiarize yourself with the role-play scenarios designed for saying 'No'.
Prepare copies of the Saying No Practice Worksheet and Confidence Boost Reflection for student use.

Step 1

Introduction & Discussion

5 Minutes

Introduce the topic of assertive communication and the importance of saying 'No'.
Engage students in a brief discussion about setting boundaries in their lives.

Step 2

Role-Playing Activity

15 Minutes

Organize students into small groups.
Use role-playing exercises where each student practices saying 'No' in various scenarios.
Encourage students to provide constructive feedback to one another.

Step 3

Reflection & Cool Down

10 Minutes

Have students complete the Confidence Boost Reflection worksheet.
Lead a group discussion on what they learned about assertiveness and discuss strategies to improve communication skills further.

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Worksheet

Saying No Practice Worksheet

This worksheet is designed to help you practice saying 'No' in a variety of challenging situations. Read each scenario carefully and write your response below. Try to use the assertive communication techniques we discussed in class.

Scenario 1: A Friend Pressures You

Your friend asks you to join them in an activity that you really don't feel comfortable with. They insist, saying, "It'll be fun if you come along!"

How would you politely but firmly say 'No'?

Scenario 2: Extra Responsibilities at Home

A family member asks you to take on extra responsibilities at home, even though you already have a lot on your plate with schoolwork.

Write your response to the request using assertive language and clear boundaries:

Scenario 3: Peer Pressure to Break a Rule

During a school event, a group of peers tries to convince you to break a school rule for what they say is 'just a bit of fun'.

Draft a response that firmly communicates your decision to say 'No' without damaging your relationships:

Scenario 4: Unwanted Favors

Someone repeatedly asks for favors that you're not comfortable completing, and you feel it is taking advantage of your kindness.

How would you set your boundaries? Write your assertive response below:

Remember to reflect on your feelings after drafting your responses. Identifying your emotions is a key part of asserting your boundaries and boosting your confidence.

Cool Down

Confidence Boost Reflection

This cool-down activity is designed for you to reflect on your experience with assertive communication today. Use this time to think about how practicing saying 'No' has impacted your self-confidence and your overall emotional well-being.

Reflection Prompts

What emotions did you feel when you practiced saying 'No'?
How do you think this experience can help improve your future interactions with friends or family when you need to set boundaries?
What did you learn about yourself through this assertiveness exercise?
Can you identify any moments during the role-playing activities where you felt particularly proud or empowered?

Feel free to jot down any other thoughts or reflections that come to mind. This is your space to acknowledge your progress and consider how you can continue building your confidence.

Remember: Every step towards asserting your boundaries is a step towards self-respect and personal growth!