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Empathy in Action

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Lesson Plan

Empathy in Action

Explore empathy in social justice

In this lesson, students will explore the role of empathy in social justice movements. Through discussions and activities, they will learn to understand different perspectives and advocate for change. This lesson is important as it fosters critical thinking, empathy, and active citizenship, equipping students with the skills to engage in social justice initiatives.

Audience

12th Grade Students

Time

1 hour 30 mins

Approach

Explore empathy in social justice

Materials

Discussion Questions, Empathy and Social Justice Worksheet, and Pens and Paper

Step 1

Introduction

10 mins

  • Begin with a brief overview of the lesson's objectives.
  • Discuss the importance of empathy in understanding social justice issues.
  • Pose a question to the class: "What does empathy mean to you?" and allow a few students to share their thoughts.

Step 2

Group Activity: Empathy Mapping

30 mins

  • Divide students into small groups.
  • Provide each group with a scenario related to a social justice issue.
  • Ask them to create an empathy map, considering the thoughts, feelings, and perspectives of those involved.
  • Encourage creativity and critical thinking.

Step 3

Discussion: Empathy in Social Justice

20 mins

  • Reconvene as a class and discuss the empathy maps created by each group.
  • Use the provided discussion questions to guide the conversation.
  • Encourage students to reflect on how empathy can drive social change.

Step 4

Worksheet: Empathy and Social Justice

20 mins

  • Distribute the "Empathy and Social Justice Worksheet."
  • Allow students time to complete the worksheet individually.
  • Encourage them to think deeply about the questions and provide thoughtful responses.

Step 5

Closure

10 mins

  • Summarize the key points discussed in the lesson.
  • Ask students to share one new insight they gained about empathy and social justice.
  • Encourage them to think about how they can apply empathy in their daily lives to advocate for change.
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Discussion

Discussion Questions: Empathy and Social Justice

This discussion will help students explore the role of empathy in social justice movements through guided questions.

How does empathy influence social justice movements?

Encourage students to think about historical and current examples where empathy played a role in driving change.







Can you think of a time when empathy led to a positive change in your community?

Guide students to reflect on personal experiences or local events where empathy was a catalyst for change.







What challenges might arise when trying to empathize with others in social justice contexts?

Discuss potential barriers to empathy, such as bias or lack of understanding, and how they can be overcome.







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Worksheet

Empathy and Social Justice Worksheet

This worksheet will help students reflect on the role of empathy in social justice and consider how they can apply it in their own lives.

Define empathy in your own words and explain its importance in social justice.








Describe a social justice issue you are passionate about and how empathy can help address it.








List three ways you can practice empathy in your daily life to support social justice.








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