Lesson Plan
Circle of Trust Lesson Plan
Students will build trust and community by participating in cooperative games and discussions that highlight shared values and mutual support.
By engaging in trust-building activities, students develop stronger relationships, feel more connected, and enhance their ability to collaborate and support one another.
Audience
Grades 5-8 Students
Time
45-60 minutes
Approach
Interactive games and guided discussions.
Materials
Circle of Trust Lesson Plan, Slide Deck, and Activity Sheets
Prep
Preparation
10 minutes
- Review the Circle of Trust Lesson Plan for detailed instructions.
- Organize the slide deck and print activity sheets for cooperative games.
- Set up the classroom to allow open movement and group discussions.
Step 1
Introduction and Trust Game
15 minutes
- Introduce the concept of trust and community building.
- Lead a simple trust game; for example, 'Trust Fall' or 'Guided Blindfold Walk' (explain rules clearly).
- Discuss students' feelings about the game to set the stage for deeper discussions.
Step 2
Cooperative Group Activity
15 minutes
- Divide students into small groups.
- Provide each group with activity sheets containing discussion prompts about shared values and experiences.
- Encourage groups to list connections and discuss how they can support one another.
Step 3
Class Discussion and Reflection
10 minutes
- Bring the class together to share insights from group discussions.
- Ask reflective questions to prompt conversation about trust and community.
- Summarize key points and emphasize the importance of mutual support.
Slide Deck
Circle of Trust: Building Community Connections
Welcome! Today we're exploring what trust means and how we can build a stronger, more supportive community.
Introduce the lesson and welcome the students. Emphasize that today's lesson is about creating a community where everyone supports one another. Highlight the importance of trust and shared values.
What is Trust?
Trust is the foundation of any healthy relationship. It helps us feel safe and supported. Let's think about what trust means to each of us.
Discuss the concept of trust with the students. Ask them to share what trust means to them and why it is important in daily life and in the classroom.
Activity: Trust Game
We will now participate in a trust game. Please listen carefully to the instructions, and remember, the goal is to build trust and have fun together!
Explain the trust game that will be played (e.g., Trust Fall or Guided Blindfold Walk). Ensure that all students understand the safety guidelines and rules before starting the activity.
Cooperative Group Activity
In your groups, discuss the following prompts:
- Share examples of moments when you felt supported by someone.
- List ideas on how classmates can support one another.
Introduce the cooperative group activity. Divide the class into small groups and distribute activity sheets. Ask them to discuss and write down their shared values and experiences.
Class Discussion & Reflection
Let's come together and share insights from our group discussions. What did you learn about trust and community today?
Facilitate a class discussion. Ask each group to share key points from their activity. Encourage students to reflect on what they learned about trust today.
Wrap Up: Building Our Community
Remember: Trust and support make our community stronger. Let's continue to work together and support one another, not just in class but every day.
Summarize the main ideas of the lesson. Reinforce the importance of continued trust and support in creating a positive classroom environment. Encourage students to keep practicing these behaviors.
Activity
Trust-Building Activities
In this activity sheet, you'll find detailed instructions for both trust games and cooperative group discussions that are designed to help you reflect on the importance of trust and community in our classroom.
Trust Game Instructions
- Introduction of the Trust Game:
- Listen carefully as the teacher explains the rules of the game (e.g., Trust Fall or Guided Blindfold Walk).
- Listen carefully as the teacher explains the rules of the game (e.g., Trust Fall or Guided Blindfold Walk).
- Safety Guidelines:
- Remember that everyone’s safety is the top priority. Follow the instructions closely and ask questions if you're unsure about any directions.
- Remember that everyone’s safety is the top priority. Follow the instructions closely and ask questions if you're unsure about any directions.
- Reflection:
- After the game, jot down your thoughts on the following questions:
- How did you feel participating in the trust game?
- What did you learn about relying on your peers?
- Can you think of a time when trust made a difference in your day-to-day life?
- How did you feel participating in the trust game?
- After the game, jot down your thoughts on the following questions:
Cooperative Group Activity
-
Group Formation:
- You will be divided into small groups. Once in your group, review the discussion prompts provided by the teacher.
-
Discussion Prompts:
- Discuss with your group the following:
- Share an example of when you felt supported by someone or when you supported someone else.
- What are some ways our class can work together to build a stronger sense of trust and community?
- Identify common values that you believe make a caring community.
- Discuss with your group the following:
-
Recording Your Insights:
- Write down at least three key points your group discussed. Consider these questions:
- What ideas did you find most interesting?
- What actions can you take to support trust within our class?
- How do these discussions change your perspective on teamwork and community?
- Write down at least three key points your group discussed. Consider these questions:
Final Reflection
- As a final step, take a few minutes to individually reflect on today's activities. Write down one personal goal to help build trust in your community. For example:
- I will try to listen more actively to my friends.
- I will be more willing to ask for help when I need it.
- I will try to listen more actively to my friends.
Remember, trust is built over time through consistent, supportive actions. Enjoy the activities and think about how you can continue to contribute to a positive classroom environment.