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Navigating Grief and Loss

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Lesson Plan

Navigating Grief and Loss

Understanding and coping with grief

This lesson helps students understand and navigate the complex emotions associated with grief and loss. Through a combination of video, reading, discussion, and a worksheet, students will explore healthy coping mechanisms and the importance of expressing emotions. This lesson is crucial for fostering emotional resilience and empathy among students, providing them with tools to manage personal and peer experiences of loss.

Audience

5th to 8th Graders

Time

30 mins

Approach

Experiential Learning, Collaborative Learning, Trauma-Informed Teaching, Restorative Practices

Materials

Video: Coping with Grief for Kids, Worksheet: Grief Reflection, Reading: Understanding Grief, and Discussion: Sharing and Listening

Step 1

Introduction

5 mins

  • Begin with a brief introduction to the topic of grief and loss.
  • Explain that everyone experiences grief differently and it's a normal part of life.
  • Set a safe and respectful tone for the lesson.

Step 2

Video Viewing

7 mins

Step 3

Reading and Reflection

8 mins

  • Distribute the reading "Understanding Grief" and allow students a few minutes to read.
  • Ask students to reflect on the reading and write down their thoughts on the worksheet "Grief Reflection."

Step 4

Group Discussion

7 mins

  • Facilitate a discussion using the "Sharing and Listening" discussion guide.
  • Encourage students to share their thoughts and listen to others' experiences and coping strategies.

Step 5

Closure

3 mins

  • Summarize key points from the lesson.
  • Remind students that it's okay to seek help and talk about their feelings.
  • Provide information on where they can find support if needed.
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Worksheet

Grief Reflection Worksheet

This worksheet helps students reflect on their understanding of grief and personal experiences. It encourages them to think about how they cope with loss and what support they might need.

What is one thing you learned about grief from the video?








How do you usually feel when you experience loss?








What are some healthy ways to cope with grief?








Who can you talk to when you're feeling sad or grieving?








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Reading

Understanding Grief

This reading provides an overview of what grief is, common feelings associated with it, and healthy ways to cope. It aims to normalize the experience of grief and encourage open discussion.

Grief is a natural response to loss. It can affect our emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Common feelings include sadness, anger, confusion, and even relief. Everyone grieves differently, and there is no right or wrong way to feel. It's important to express your emotions and seek support from friends, family, or counselors. Healthy coping strategies include talking about your feelings, writing in a journal, and engaging in activities you enjoy.

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Discussion

Sharing and Listening

This discussion encourages students to share their experiences with grief and listen to others. It aims to build empathy and understanding among peers.

Can anyone share a time they felt grief or loss?

Encourage students to share only if they feel comfortable. Remind them that listening is just as important as sharing.







What are some ways you have coped with grief in the past?

Guide students to think about both positive and negative coping mechanisms.







How can we support friends who are grieving?

Discuss the importance of being present, listening, and offering help without judgment.







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