Emotional Safety and Expression

Alicia Wilson

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Emotional Safety and Expression

Address emotions about political events

This lesson aims to provide a safe space for middle school students to express and process their emotions regarding political events, specifically if they feel upset or unsafe. By using trauma-informed teaching strategies, the lesson will help students articulate their feelings and learn coping mechanisms. This is important to ensure students feel heard and supported, fostering a sense of safety and community in the classroom.

Audience

Middle School Students

Time

15 minutes

Approach

Trauma-Informed Teaching, Blended Learning, Active Learning

Materials

Discussion Questions, and Emotion Expression Activity Sheet

Step 1

Introduction

2 minutes

Welcome students and explain the purpose of the lesson: to provide a safe space to express feelings about recent political events.
Emphasize that all feelings are valid and this is a supportive environment.
Teacher Statement: "Today, we're going to take some time to talk about how we feel about what's happening in the world. Remember, every feeling is okay, and this is a safe place to share. I sometimes feel overwhelmed by the news, and it's important to talk about it. I feel that sharing helps me process my emotions."

Step 2

Discussion

5 minutes

Use the provided discussion questions to guide a conversation about how students are feeling.
Encourage students to share their thoughts and listen to each other.
Validate their emotions and reassure them that it's okay to feel upset or worried.
Teacher Statement: "I want to hear from you about how you're feeling. It's important to know that whatever you're feeling is valid, and we're here to support each other. I often feel anxious when I don't understand what's happening, and talking helps me. I feel more connected when I hear others share their experiences."

Step 3

Emotion Expression Activity

5 minutes

Begin with a short mindfulness exercise: Ask students to close their eyes, take deep breaths, and focus on their breathing for one minute. Encourage them to notice how their body feels with each breath.
Distribute the Emotion Expression Activity Sheet.
Ask students to write or draw how they are feeling and what makes them feel safe.
Encourage creativity and assure them that their work is private unless they choose to share.
Teacher Statement: "Take a moment to express your feelings on paper. You can draw or write about what you're feeling and what helps you feel safe. This is just for you, but you can share if you want to. I find drawing helps me when I'm feeling confused. I feel a sense of relief when I put my feelings on paper."

Step 4

Closure

3 minutes

Invite students to share their work if they feel comfortable.
Summarize the key points discussed and remind students of available support resources.
Thank students for their participation and courage in sharing.
Teacher Statement: "Thank you for sharing and being brave. Remember, we have resources and people here to support you. Let's continue to support each other. I feel grateful for the support we give each other in this class. I feel hopeful when I see how we can come together as a community."

Discussion

Discussion Questions

A set of questions to guide a discussion on students' emotions regarding political events.

How are you feeling about the recent political events?

Encourage honesty and validate all emotions. Remind students that it's okay to feel upset or worried.

What makes you feel safe when you are upset?

Guide students to think about personal coping mechanisms and support systems.

How can we support each other in this classroom?

Foster a sense of community and encourage students to think about ways to support their peers.

Worksheet

Emotion Expression Activity Sheet

An activity sheet for students to express their emotions through writing or drawing.

Draw or write about how you are feeling right now.

Use colors, shapes, or words that represent your emotions.

What are some things that make you feel safe?

Think about people, places, or activities that help you feel secure.