Lesson Plan
Self Advocacy Strategy Lesson Plan
Students will learn the definition and importance of self-advocacy and practice using “I” statements in real-life scenarios to express their needs and opinions confidently.
Self-advocacy builds communication, problem-solving, and self-confidence, empowering students to take ownership of their learning and personal growth.
Audience
7th Grade Middle School Students
Time
30 minutes
Approach
Interactive discussion, group work, role-play, and reflection
Materials
Chart paper and markers, Self-Advocacy Introduction Video, Self-Advocacy Scenario Cards, Self-Advocacy Reflection Worksheet, and Timer or stopwatch
Prep
Prepare Materials
10 minutes
- Print and/or queue the Self-Advocacy Introduction Video for playback.
- Print and cut apart the Self-Advocacy Scenario Cards (one card per small group).
- Make one copy of the Self-Advocacy Reflection Worksheet for each student.
- Arrange chart paper and markers at the front of the room.
- Set up timer or stopwatch for activity timing.
Step 1
Introduction
5 minutes
- Begin by asking: “What does self-advocacy mean?”
- Play the Self-Advocacy Introduction Video.
- Record key student responses and definitions on chart paper.
- Highlight the use of clear “I” statements for expressing needs.
Step 2
Scenario Analysis
10 minutes
- Divide students into groups of 3–4.
- Distribute one Self-Advocacy Scenario Card to each group.
- In groups, identify the speaker’s need, goal, and how they might use an “I” statement.
- Have each group jot down their proposed “I” statement on chart paper.
Step 3
Role-Play Practice
10 minutes
- Invite one group at a time to role-play their scenario in front of the class.
- Class listens for strong “I” statements and offers positive feedback.
- Discuss alternative phrasing or tone as needed.
- Rotate until time is up, ensuring at least two scenarios are role-played.
Step 4
Reflection and Assessment
5 minutes
- Distribute the Self-Advocacy Reflection Worksheet.
- Students individually write about a situation where they could self-advocate and draft their own “I” statement.
- Collect worksheets to assess understanding and provide feedback.
Slide Deck
Own Your Voice: Introduction
In today’s lesson, we will learn what self-advocacy is, why it matters, and how to use “I” statements to express our needs and opinions confidently.
Welcome students and introduce the lesson. Explain that today’s goal is to learn how to speak up for themselves.
Cue up the Self-Advocacy Introduction Video. After playback, ask for any quick reactions before moving on.
Definition & Key Elements
Self-advocacy is:
• Speaking up for your own needs and rights
• Expressing your opinions clearly and respectfully
• Taking responsibility for your own learning and well-being
Define key terms. Emphasize that self-advocacy is speaking up for yourself respectfully and clearly.
Why Self-Advocacy Matters
• Builds confidence and independence
• Improves communication skills
• Helps solve problems more effectively
• Empowers you to take ownership of your learning
Highlight benefits for students. Invite volunteers to share why they think self-advocacy might help them.
Crafting Strong “I” Statements
Use this formula:
“I feel ___ when ___ because ___.”
Example:
“I feel frustrated when I can’t see the board because I need clear notes.”
Show the structure of an “I” statement. Model one example and ask a student to help craft another.
Scenario Analysis Activity
- Divide into groups of 3–4
- Each group gets one scenario card
- Identify the need, goal, and draft an “I” statement
- Write your statement on chart paper
Explain group formation and how to use the scenario cards. Circulate to support groups as they work.
Role-Play Practice
Groups take turns acting out their scenario using their “I” statement. After each role-play:
• Classmates share what worked well
• Suggest one way to strengthen tone or wording
Invite two groups to role-play. Encourage classmates to listen for clear “I” statements and give positive feedback.
Reflection & Next Steps
On your reflection worksheet:
• Describe a situation where you could self-advocate
• Draft your own “I” statement
We will use these to guide our future practice and feedback.
Hand out reflection worksheets. Give students time to write and then close the lesson by summarizing key takeaways.
Reading
What Is Self-Advocacy?
Self-advocacy means speaking up for yourself when you need help or when you have an idea to share. It involves:
- Knowing what you need
- Expressing your thoughts clearly
- Asking for support respectfully
Why Is Self-Advocacy Important?
Self-advocacy helps you build confidence, solve problems, and take charge of your learning. When you share your needs, teachers and friends can understand you better and offer the right help.
Using “I” Statements
A helpful way to advocate for yourself is by using “I” statements. These statements follow a simple formula:
“I feel ___ when ___ because ___.”
Example:
“I feel confused when the instructions are unclear because I want to know how to complete my work correctly.”
Tips for Strong Self-Advocacy
- Be specific: Tell exactly what you need or how you feel.
- Be respectful: Use a calm voice and polite words.
- Be honest: Share your true feelings and thoughts.
Remember, your voice matters! When you advocate for yourself, you help others understand how to support you best.
Activity
Self-Advocacy Scenario Cards
Each group receives one card. Read your scenario, identify the speaker’s need and goal, and draft an “I” statement using the formula:
“I feel ___ when ___ because ___.”
Card 1:
“You’re sitting in class and can’t see the board clearly from your seat. You’ve already tried standing up, but it’s distracting. You need a better view to take good notes.”
Card 2:
“You’re working on a group project and one teammate isn’t completing their share of the work. You’re worried the group grade will suffer if nothing changes.”
Card 3:
“You’ve been absent and missed important instructions for an assignment. Now the deadline is tomorrow, and you’re unsure how to proceed.”
Card 4:
“During independent work time, a classmate keeps talking and distracting you. You want to focus and finish your work on time.”
Card 5:
“You feel unwell and might need to visit the nurse, but you’re afraid your teacher will think you’re avoiding class.”
Card 6:
“You have an idea for a class discussion topic that’s different from what the teacher planned. You want to share it but don’t want to interrupt or seem rude.”
Use these scenarios to practice clear and respectful self-advocacy. After drafting your statement, prepare to role-play with your group!
Worksheet
Self Advocacy Reflection Worksheet
Use this worksheet to think about a real-life situation where you can practice self-advocacy. Write your responses in the spaces provided.
1. Describe a Situation
In your own words, describe a time when you needed to speak up for yourself (in class, with friends, at home, etc.).
2. What Was Your Need?
Identify what you needed in that situation (help, clarity, respect, space, etc.).
3. What Was Your Goal?
What outcome did you hope to achieve by speaking up?
4. Draft Your “I” Statement
Use the formula: “I feel ___ when ___ because ___.”
5. How Will Self-Advocating Help?
Explain how using your “I” statement might improve the situation or help you feel better.
6. Next Steps
Write one action you will take to use self-advocacy in the future (e.g., raise your hand, schedule a meeting, ask a friend for support).
Great job reflecting on your needs and practicing how to express them! Keep this worksheet as a reminder that your voice matters, and you have the power to advocate for yourself.