Empathy and Listening Circles

Julie Weller

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Empathy and Listening Circles

Practice active listening and empathy

This lesson engages students in structured dialogues to practice active listening and empathy, fostering a supportive classroom community. By participating in listening circles, students will strengthen peer relationships and set a collaborative tone for the year, enhancing their social-emotional skills and creating a more inclusive environment.

Audience

Grades 9-12 Students

Time

40 minutes

Approach

Practice active listening and empathy

Materials

Discussion Guide, Reflection Worksheet, Pens, and Paper

Step 1

Introduction

5 minutes

Welcome students and introduce the concept of empathy and active listening.
Explain the purpose of the session: to practice these skills through structured dialogues.
Briefly outline the activities planned for the session.

Step 2

Setting the Ground Rules

5 minutes

Discuss the importance of creating a safe and respectful environment.
Establish ground rules for the listening circles, such as confidentiality, respect, and no interruptions.
Ensure all students agree to the rules before proceeding.

Step 3

Listening Circle Activity

20 minutes

Divide students into small groups of 4-5.
Provide each group with a discussion guide and reflection worksheet.
Instruct students to take turns sharing a personal experience or thought while others practice active listening.
Encourage students to use empathetic responses and ask open-ended questions.

Step 4

Group Reflection

5 minutes

Bring the class back together and facilitate a group discussion.
Ask students to share their experiences and insights from the listening circles.
Highlight any common themes or observations.

Step 5

Closure

5 minutes

Summarize the key takeaways from the session.
Encourage students to continue practicing empathy and active listening in their daily interactions.
Thank students for their participation and openness.

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Discussion

Discussion Guide

A guide to facilitate structured dialogues in listening circles, focusing on empathy and active listening.

What does empathy mean to you?

Encourage students to share personal definitions and examples of empathy.

How can active listening improve our relationships?

Discuss the impact of listening on understanding and connection.

Share a time when you felt truly heard. What made it special?

Guide students to reflect on the elements of effective listening.

Worksheet

Reflection Worksheet

A worksheet for students to reflect on their experiences during the listening circles, enhancing their understanding of empathy and active listening.

Describe a moment during the circle when you felt connected to the speaker.

Think about the emotions and thoughts you experienced.

What did you learn about yourself as a listener?

Consider your strengths and areas for improvement.

How can you apply empathy and active listening in your daily life?

Identify specific situations or relationships where these skills could be beneficial.