lenny

Circle of Trust

user image

Lesson Plan

Circle of Trust Lesson Plan

Students build trust and empathy through a structured talking circle, engaging in shared storytelling and active listening.

This lesson fosters a safe, inclusive environment where students learn empathy, respect, and the importance of being heard.

Audience

Grades 3-5

Time

45-60 minutes

Approach

Structured discussion and storytelling in a circle format.

Materials

Circle of Trust Slide Deck, and Circle of Trust Discussion Guide

Prep

Preparation

10 minutes

Step 1

Introduction and Circle Setup

10 minutes

  • Welcome students and explain the purpose of the talking circle.
  • Set ground rules for respectful listening and sharing.
  • Use the Circle of Trust Slide Deck to visually emphasize key points.

Step 2

Guided Discussion

20 minutes

  • Initiate the talking circle, asking students to share a story or thought related to trust or a positive experience.
  • Encourage each participant by referencing the Circle of Trust Discussion Guide for open-ended questions.
  • Ensure that every student gets an opportunity to speak, reminding them to listen actively.

Step 3

Reflection and Wrap-Up

10 minutes

  • Conduct a group reflection on the discussion, inviting students to share how it felt to be heard.
  • Recap the importance of trust and empathy in daily interactions.
  • Thank students for their contributions, reinforcing the safe environment created during the session.
lenny
0 educators
use Lenny to create lessons.

No credit card needed

Slide Deck

Circle of Trust

Welcome to our talking circle activity!

Today we'll learn about trust, empathy, and how to listen to each other.

Welcome students to the Circle of Trust lesson. Briefly explain that today's session is about building trust and understanding each other through a talking circle. Emphasize that everyone has a voice and will be listened to.

What is Trust?

Trust is believing in someone and feeling safe with them.

It means listening, understanding, and caring for each other.

Introduce the concept of trust. Ask students if they know what trust means and discuss briefly.

Talking Circle Process

  1. Sit in a circle
  2. Take turns to speak
  3. Listen carefully when others speak

Remember: Every voice matters!

Explain the talking circle process. Use visuals to show students how they will sit in a circle and share their thoughts in turns.

Circle Guidelines

  • Respect others' turn to speak
  • Keep your voice gentle
  • Listen with an open heart

Share the guidelines for respectful sharing and active listening. Remind students of the rules to ensure a safe and inclusive environment.

Reflection & Wrap-Up

Let's talk about how we felt sharing our stories:

  • Did you feel heard?
  • How did it feel to listen to others?

Prepare for group reflection. Encourage students to think about how it felt to share and listen during the discussion. Summarize key points of the lesson.

lenny

Discussion

Circle of Trust Discussion Guide

This guide is designed to help you facilitate a thoughtful and respectful talking circle. Use the following open-ended questions and prompts to encourage students to share their thoughts and experiences about trust and empathy.

Guidelines for Facilitating the Discussion

  • Set the Tone: Remind students about the purpose of the circle: to share, listen, and understand each other.
  • Respectful Listening: Encourage students to listen carefully and wait their turn to speak.
  • No Interruptions: Ensure that no one interrupts another person while they are speaking.
  • Empathy First: Emphasize the importance of empathizing with others' feelings.




Opening Questions

  1. What does trust mean to you?

    • Prompt: Can you think of a time when someone trusted you, or you trusted someone?



  2. How do you feel when someone listens to you carefully?

    • Prompt: Why do you think it’s important to feel heard?



  3. What qualities make someone a good friend or trusted partner?

    • Prompt: How do these qualities help build a safe space for sharing?



Storytelling Prompts

  1. Share a Personal Story:

    • Ask students to share a story about a time they felt trusted, or when they helped someone feel trusted.



  2. Discuss a Positive Experience:

    • What was one experience where you felt really listened to? How did that make you feel?



Follow-Up Questions

  1. Reflect on Empathy:

    • How might you feel if you were not listened to? Why is it important to show empathy?



  2. Encouraging Growth:

    • How can we practice being better listeners in our everyday lives?



  3. Group Reflection:

    • How does sharing our experiences in a circle help us understand each other better?



Wrap-Up Discussion

  • Group Reflection: Ask the group, "What is one thing you learned today about trust and listening?"
  • Closing Thought: Encourage students to think of one way they can help someone feel safe and listened to this week.







This discussion guide aims to nurture an environment of mutual respect, empathy, and trust. Use it to steer the conversation and ensure every student feels valued and heard.

lenny
lenny