Empathy in Action

Rhonda Pearce-Marven

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Empathy in Action

Learn how to use empathy

This lesson introduces 5th graders to the concept of empathy through a brief interactive activity and discussion. Empathy is a crucial social-emotional skill that helps students understand and connect with others' feelings, fostering a more inclusive and supportive classroom environment.

Audience

5th grade students

Time

20 minutes

Approach

Materials

Printable Empathy Scenario Cards, and Discussion Questions

Step 1

Introduction to Empathy

5 minutes

Begin by asking students if they know what empathy means.
Explain that empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person.
Share a simple example, such as feeling sad when a friend is upset.

Step 2

Empathy Activity

10 minutes

Distribute the Printable Empathy Scenario Cards to pairs or small groups.
Instruct students to read the scenario on their card and discuss how they would feel and respond if they were in that situation.
Encourage students to think about how the person in the scenario might feel and what they could do to help.

Step 3

Discussion and Reflection

5 minutes

Gather students back together and ask them to share their thoughts on the scenarios.
Use the Discussion Questions to guide a conversation about how empathy can be used in everyday situations.
Encourage students to think of ways they can practice empathy in their daily lives.

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Worksheet

Empathy Scenario Cards

Printable cards with scenarios for students to discuss and practice empathy.

Your friend is upset because they lost their favorite toy.

A classmate is nervous about an upcoming test.

Someone in your group is feeling left out during a game.

Your sibling is sad because they miss a friend who moved away.

Discussion

Empathy Discussion Questions

Questions to guide a discussion on empathy and its importance.

What does empathy mean to you?

Encourage students to share their own definitions and examples.

Why is it important to understand how others feel?

Discuss how empathy can help build friendships and resolve conflicts.

Can you think of a time when someone showed empathy towards you? How did it make you feel?

Allow students to share personal stories and reflect on the impact of empathy.