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Empathy in Action

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Sonia Ramirez

Tier 1
For Schools

Lesson Plan

Empathy in Action

Understand and practice empathy

Students will engage in activities that help them understand and practice empathy. They will learn the importance of empathy in building strong, supportive communities. This lesson is important as it helps foster social-emotional skills that are critical for creating a positive and inclusive classroom environment.

Audience

3rd to 5th Grade Students

Time

45 mins

Approach

Understand and practice empathy

Materials

Whiteboard and markers, Empathy Scenarios Worksheet, Discussion Questions, and Writing materials

Step 1

Introduction

5 mins

  • Greet the students and introduce the topic of empathy.
  • Explain that empathy means understanding and sharing the feelings of others.
  • Share a simple example of empathy, such as helping a friend who is sad.

Step 2

Group Activity: Empathy Scenarios

15 mins

  • Divide the students into small groups.
  • Hand out the Empathy Scenarios Worksheet to each group.
  • Instruct the groups to read and discuss each scenario, then come up with ways to show empathy in those situations.
  • Walk around and assist groups as needed.

Step 3

Class Discussion

10 mins

  • Bring the class back together and discuss the different scenarios and responses.
  • Ask each group to share one scenario and their empathetic response.
  • Use the Discussion Questions to facilitate deeper understanding.

Step 4

Individual Reflection

10 mins

  • Ask students to return to their seats and think about a time when someone showed empathy towards them.
  • Provide writing materials and encourage them to write a short paragraph about that experience.
  • Invite a few students to share their reflections with the class (if comfortable).

Step 5

Closure

5 mins

  • Summarize the key points discussed in the lesson.
  • Emphasize the importance of empathy in building a supportive community.
  • Encourage students to practice empathy in their daily lives.
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Worksheet

Empathy Scenarios Worksheet

A worksheet with different scenarios to help students think about empathetic responses.

Scenario 1: Your friend looks upset during recess. What do you do?








Scenario 2: A new student is sitting alone during lunch. How can you help?








Scenario 3: Your classmate is struggling with a difficult math problem. What would you do?








Scenario 4: You see someone being teased by others. How can you show empathy?








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Discussion

Empathy Discussion Questions

Questions to facilitate a deeper class discussion on empathy.

Why is empathy important?

Discuss how empathy helps build friendships and create a supportive classroom environment.







Can you think of a time when you showed empathy?

Encourage students to share personal stories if they feel comfortable.







How can we practice empathy in our classroom every day?

Brainstorm ideas with the class, such as helping others, listening carefully, and being kind.







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