Empathy Circle

Joleen Shillingford

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Empathy Circle

Foster understanding and acceptance

This lesson involves creating a supportive circle space where students can share experiences and listen to peers, fostering a culture of understanding and acceptance. It helps students appreciate diverse perspectives and builds a warm community atmosphere, which is crucial for their social-emotional development.

Audience

Grades 5-8 Students

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Foster understanding and acceptance

Materials

Discussion Guidelines, Empathy Circle Questions, Post-it Notes, and Pens

Step 1

Introduction

5 minutes

Begin by explaining the concept of empathy and its importance in understanding others.
Discuss how empathy can help build a supportive community in the classroom.

Step 2

Setting Up the Circle

5 minutes

Arrange chairs in a circle to create an inclusive environment.
Explain the rules of the circle: one person speaks at a time, everyone listens respectfully, and sharing is voluntary.

Step 3

Sharing Experiences

15 minutes

Invite students to share their experiences or feelings on a given topic (e.g., a time they felt misunderstood).
Use the Empathy Circle Questions to guide the discussion and encourage participation.
Allow students to use post-it notes to jot down thoughts or feelings they want to share.

Step 4

Closure

5 minutes

Summarize the key points discussed and highlight the importance of empathy in daily interactions.
Encourage students to practice empathy outside the classroom and reflect on how it can improve their relationships.

0 educators
use Lenny to create lessons.

No credit card needed

Discussion

Discussion Guidelines

Guidelines to ensure a respectful and supportive discussion environment during the Empathy Circle.

What are the key rules for participating in the Empathy Circle?

Ensure students understand the importance of listening, respecting others' turns to speak, and maintaining confidentiality.

How can we show empathy when someone is sharing?

Discuss active listening, body language, and verbal affirmations as ways to show empathy.

Discussion

Empathy Circle Questions

A set of questions to guide the sharing and discussion during the Empathy Circle.

Can you share a time when you felt misunderstood?

Encourage students to think about their feelings and how they communicated them.

How did you feel when someone showed empathy towards you?

Discuss the positive impact of empathy on personal experiences.

What can we do to be more empathetic in our daily lives?

Explore practical ways to practice empathy, such as active listening and considering others' perspectives.