Mindful Communication

Stephen Neverson

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Mindful Communication

Develop effective communication skills

This lesson focuses on developing effective communication skills through mindfulness practices and active listening exercises. Students will learn to express themselves clearly and understand others better, fostering empathy and connection. This lesson is important as it helps students build essential life skills that enhance their interpersonal relationships and emotional intelligence.

Audience

9th-12th Grade Students

Time

45 mins

Approach

Develop effective communication skills

Materials

Mindful Communication Discussion Guide, Active Listening Worksheet, and Pens and Paper

Step 1

Introduction to Mindful Communication

5 mins

Briefly introduce the concept of mindful communication.
Explain the importance of being present and attentive in conversations.
Share the objectives of the lesson.

Step 2

Mindfulness Practice

10 mins

Guide students through a short mindfulness exercise to center their attention.
Encourage students to focus on their breathing and being present in the moment.

Step 3

Active Listening Exercise

15 mins

Distribute the Active Listening Worksheet.
Pair students and have them practice active listening with each other.
Encourage them to focus on understanding and reflecting back what they hear.

Step 4

Group Discussion

10 mins

Use the Mindful Communication Discussion Guide to facilitate a group discussion.
Discuss the challenges and benefits of mindful communication.
Encourage students to share their experiences from the exercise.

Step 5

Closure and Reflection

5 mins

Summarize the key points of the lesson.
Ask students to reflect on how they can apply mindful communication in their daily lives.
Encourage students to set a personal goal related to mindful communication.

Discussion

Mindful Communication Discussion Guide

This guide will help facilitate a discussion on the importance and challenges of mindful communication.

What does mindful communication mean to you?

Encourage students to think about being present and attentive in conversations.

What challenges do you face when trying to communicate mindfully?

Discuss common distractions and how they can be managed.

How can mindful communication improve your relationships?

Explore the benefits of empathy and understanding in communication.

Worksheet

Active Listening Worksheet

This worksheet will guide students through an active listening exercise to enhance their communication skills.

Partner A: Share a recent experience you had. Partner B: Listen and reflect back what you heard.

Focus on understanding and accurately reflecting the speaker's message.

Switch roles and repeat the exercise.

Ensure both partners have a chance to practice active listening.