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Kindness Carnival

Lesson Plan

Kindness Carnival

Foster community and understanding

In this lesson, students will engage in a 'Kindness Carnival' where they participate in cooperative games that emphasize sharing, empathy, and teamwork. This lesson is important as it helps students develop social-emotional skills, fostering a sense of community and understanding among peers. By participating in these activities, students will learn the value of cooperation and empathy, which are essential skills for becoming responsible and productive citizens.

Audience

Middle School (Grades 6-8)

Time

1 hour

Approach

Foster community and understanding

Materials

Cones for marking game areas, Blindfolds for trust games, Soft balls for team games, Discussion Guide, and Reflection Worksheet

Step 1

Introduction

10 mins

  • Begin with a brief discussion on the importance of kindness, empathy, and teamwork.
  • Explain the purpose of the 'Kindness Carnival' and how the activities will help build these skills.
  • Divide students into small groups for the activities.

Step 2

Activity 1: Trust Walk

15 mins

  • Pair students and provide one blindfold per pair.
  • One student wears the blindfold while the other guides them through an obstacle course using only verbal instructions.
  • Emphasize the importance of clear communication and trust.

Step 3

Activity 2: Cooperative Ball Toss

15 mins

  • Form groups of 4-5 students.
  • Provide each group with a soft ball.
  • Challenge them to keep the ball in the air for as long as possible using only their hands.
  • Encourage teamwork and strategizing to achieve the goal.

Step 4

Activity 3: Sharing Circle

10 mins

  • Gather students in a circle.
  • Each student shares one act of kindness they have experienced or performed recently.
  • Encourage active listening and appreciation for each other's stories.

Step 5

Closure

10 mins

  • Distribute the Reflection Worksheet for students to complete individually.
  • Facilitate a group discussion using the Discussion Guide to reflect on the activities and what they learned about kindness and teamwork.
  • Conclude with a reminder of the importance of applying these skills in everyday life.
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Discussion

Discussion Guide

This guide will help facilitate a reflective discussion on the activities and the importance of kindness and teamwork.

What was the most challenging part of the activities today?

Encourage students to think about moments where they had to rely on others or communicate effectively.







How did it feel to trust someone else during the Trust Walk?

Discuss the emotions involved in trusting others and how it relates to real-life situations.







What strategies did your group use to keep the ball in the air during the Cooperative Ball Toss?

Highlight the importance of teamwork and communication in achieving a common goal.







Can you share an example of kindness you witnessed or experienced during the Sharing Circle?

Foster a sense of community by sharing positive experiences and recognizing acts of kindness.







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Worksheet

Reflection Worksheet

This worksheet allows students to reflect on their experiences during the Kindness Carnival and consider how they can apply these lessons in their daily lives.

Describe a moment during the activities when you felt proud of your teamwork.








What did you learn about empathy and kindness from today's activities?








How can you apply the skills of sharing and cooperation in your school or community?








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