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Holiday Reflection Circles

Lesson Plan

Holiday Reflection Circles

Promote listening and respect

In this lesson, students will gather in a circle to share personal reflections on what the holiday season means to them. This activity encourages students to discuss traditions, family, and what they look forward to during the holidays. It is important as it promotes listening skills and respect for diverse perspectives, helping students to appreciate the variety of experiences and traditions among their peers.

Audience

Grades 7-12

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Promote listening and respect

Materials

Discussion Guide, Post-it Notes, and Pens

Step 1

Introduction

5 mins

  • Welcome students and explain the purpose of the activity: to share personal reflections on the holiday season.
  • Emphasize the importance of listening and respecting diverse perspectives.
  • Set ground rules for the discussion, such as one person speaking at a time and maintaining confidentiality.

Step 2

Sharing Circle

20 mins

  • Arrange students in a circle.
  • Invite each student to share their thoughts on what the holiday season means to them, including any traditions or family activities they look forward to.
  • Encourage students to listen actively and respectfully.
  • Use the Discussion Guide to facilitate the conversation and ensure everyone has a chance to speak.

Step 3

Reflection

5 mins

  • Ask students to reflect on what they learned from their peers.
  • Distribute post-it notes and pens for students to write down one thing they appreciated hearing from someone else.
  • Collect the notes and read a few aloud, if time permits, to highlight the diversity of experiences shared.
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Discussion

Holiday Reflection Discussion Guide

This guide will help facilitate the holiday reflection circle, ensuring that students feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and listening to others.

What does the holiday season mean to you?

Encourage students to think about personal traditions, family gatherings, and what they look forward to during the holidays.







Can you share a holiday tradition that is unique to your family?

Guide students to share specific traditions, explaining their significance and how they are celebrated.







What is one thing you learned from someone else's holiday experience?

Prompt students to reflect on the diversity of experiences and what they found interesting or surprising.







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