Lesson Plan
Respect Rally Session 1
Students will define respect, bullying, and profanity, and collaboratively establish classroom norms to promote respectful behavior.
Clarifying these concepts empowers students to recognize and prevent bullying, communicate appropriately, and foster a positive, inclusive classroom culture.
Audience
6th-8th Grade Middle School Students
Time
30 minutes
Approach
Interactive reading, discussion, game, and poster creation.
Materials
- Respect Definition Reading, - Chart Paper and Markers, - Respect & Bullying Scenarios Worksheet, and - Respect Ball Toss Game Cards
Prep
Prepare Session 1 Materials
10 minutes
- Print copies of Respect Definition Reading for each student.
- Copy and cut out all Respect Ball Toss Game Cards.
- Print enough Respect & Bullying Scenarios Worksheet for group work.
- Gather chart paper and markers.
- Review definitions of respect, bullying, and profanity to guide discussion.
Step 1
Warm-Up Discussion
5 minutes
- Ask: “What does respect mean to you?” and record responses on the board.
- Highlight keywords (kindness, fairness, listening).
- Explain that understanding respect helps prevent bullying and hurtful language.
Step 2
Reading & Definitions
5 minutes
- Distribute Respect Definition Reading.
- In pairs, read and underline definitions of respect, bullying, and profanity.
- Debrief: Invite volunteers to share examples and clarify terms.
Step 3
Respect Ball Toss Game
10 minutes
- Students form a circle and use a soft ball.
- The catcher selects a Respect Ball Toss Game Cards, reads the scenario aloud.
- Classifies it as respectful, bullying, or profanity and explains why.
- Return the card and continue until time ends.
Step 4
Create Classroom Norms Poster
10 minutes
- Split into small groups; provide chart paper and markers.
- Brainstorm 3–4 “We will…” statements that show how to treat each other respectfully.
- Write statements on the poster and display around the room.
- Each group briefly shares one norm.
use Lenny to create lessons.
No credit card needed
Reading
Respect Definition Reading
Respect
Respect means treating others with kindness, fairness, and consideration. When you respect someone, you listen carefully, value their feelings, and treat their ideas and belongings as important. Showing respect helps everyone feel safe and valued.
Examples of Respect:
- Listening without interrupting when someone is speaking.
- Using polite words like “please” and “thank you.”
- Keeping your hands and feet to yourself.
Bullying
Bullying is when someone repeatedly hurts or scares another person on purpose. Bullying can be physical (hitting, pushing), verbal (name-calling, threats), or social (spreading rumors, leaving someone out). Bullying hurts feelings and can make school feel unsafe.
Examples of Bullying:
- Calling a classmate mean names every day.
- Spreading a rumor about someone to get others to avoid them.
- Pushing someone in line over and over.
Profanity
Profanity means using rude, disrespectful, or offensive words. These words can upset or anger people and harm a respectful environment. Choosing kind and appropriate language shows that you value others’ feelings.
Examples of Profanity:
- Swear words or curses.
- Insulting someone with rude language.
- Using words to shock or offend others.
By understanding these definitions and examples, we can make better choices and help build a respectful classroom community.
Worksheet
Respect & Bullying Scenarios Worksheet
Name: _______________________ Date: ____________
Directions
Read each scenario below. Decide whether the behavior is Respectful, Bullying, or Profanity. Then explain your choice in the space provided.
- Alex rolls his eyes and mutters a swear word when Jamie asks for help with homework.
Behavior: _________________________
Why? _________________________________________________________________________
- Mia sees two classmates whispering and laughing as they point at Sara’s new haircut.
Behavior: _________________________
Why? _________________________________________________________________________
- During lunch, Ethan notices Sam sitting alone. He invites Sam to join his friends.
Behavior: _________________________
Why? _________________________________________________________________________
- Noah calls Riley a mean name and shoves them in the hallway every day.
Behavior: _________________________
Why? _________________________________________________________________________
- Lily says, “Please don’t use my pencil without asking,” when her friend reaches for it.
Behavior: _________________________
Why? _________________________________________________________________________
Rewrite for Respect
Read the rude comment below and rewrite it to make it respectful.
Original: “You’re so stupid for missing that answer.”
Respectful Rewrite: ________________________________________________________
Your Own Scenario
Create a short scenario that shows someone helping another student. Then explain why it is an example of respect.
Scenario: _________________________________________________________________
Why is this respectful? _____________________________________________________
Game
Respect Ball Toss Game Cards
Print and cut out each card below. During the game, students form a circle and toss a soft ball. The catcher draws a card, reads the scenario aloud, and then:
• Classifies it as Respectful, Bullying, or Profanity
• Explains why it fits that category
1. Kim helps Jordan pick up dropped books in the hallway without being asked.
2. Sam calls Lee a rude name in front of friends.
3. Ava says, “Please wait your turn” when a classmate tries to speak over her.
4. Dylan tells Mia she’s ugly and laughs about it later.
5. Noah whispers a swear word under his breath when frustrated with a test.
6. Emma invites a new student to join her group at lunch.
7. Carlos pushes Max in line and shoves him aside.
8. Lily says “thank you” and smiles when someone holds the door for her.
9. Jay spreads a rumor that Anna cheated on the homework.
10. Zoe rolls her eyes and mutters “shut up” when her partner explains an answer.
11. Tyler offers his notes to a classmate who missed school.
12. Priya calls someone a “loser” after they lose the game.
Cut along the lines above to create 12 individual scenario cards. Feel free to add more examples based on class experiences!
Discussion
Session 1 Discussion
Discussion Guidelines
- Listen actively and don’t interrupt.
- Speak respectfully and use kind words.
- One person talks at a time.
- Everyone’s ideas are valued and kept within our circle.
Warm-Up Reflection (5 minutes)
- Recall one example of respectful behavior from Respect Definition Reading.
- What made that example respectful? How did it make you feel?
Core Questions (10 minutes)
- Recognizing Bullying
• Describe a time you’ve seen bullying (physical, verbal, or social) at school. What happened?
• How did people react? What could have been a more respectful response? - Responding to Profanity
• If a classmate mutters a swear word out of frustration, what can you say or do to keep our environment respectful?
• Why is it important to choose kind language, even when we’re upset? - Supporting Peers
• Think of the scenario where Emma invites a new student to lunch (Respect Ball Toss Game Cards). Why is this an important example of respect?
• How can each of us look for opportunities to help someone who feels left out?
Linking to Classroom Norms (5 minutes)
- Review one of your group’s “We will…” statements from the poster you created. Why did you choose that norm?
- How do these norms help us prevent bullying and hurtful language? Provide a specific example.
Follow-Up Prompts & Extensions
• Role-Play: In pairs, act out a brief scenario where one student notices another using disrespectful language and steps in kindly. Debrief: What words or actions helped turn the situation around?
• Deepen Understanding: Ask quieter students: “Can you share a time you felt respected by a teacher or friend?”
• Quick Write: On a sticky note, write one new commitment you’ll make this week to show respect to classmates. Post on the “Respect Bulletin Board.”
Quiz
Session 1 Quiz
Answer Key
Session 1 Answer Key
This answer key covers both the Worksheet: Respect & Bullying Scenarios and the Session 1 Quiz. Detailed explanations and scoring rubrics are provided for open-response items.
Worksheet: Respect & Bullying Scenarios
- Alex rolls his eyes and mutters a swear word when Jamie asks for help with homework.
- Behavior: Profanity
- Why: Alex uses a swear word to express frustration. Eye-rolling and cursing are disrespectful language, which fits the definition of profanity.
- Mia sees two classmates whispering and laughing as they point at Sara’s new haircut.
- Behavior: Bullying
- Why: Whispering and laughing to embarrass Sara is social bullying. It’s an intentional action to hurt feelings and exclude someone.
- During lunch, Ethan notices Sam sitting alone. He invites Sam to join his friends.
- Behavior: Respectful
- Why: Ethan shows kindness and inclusion by offering company, which demonstrates caring and fairness.
- Noah calls Riley a mean name and shoves them in the hallway every day.
- Behavior: Bullying
- Why: Repeated name-calling and physical aggression are classic examples of bullying (verbal + physical).
- Lily says, “Please don’t use my pencil without asking,” when her friend reaches for it.
- Behavior: Respectful
- Why: Lily uses polite language (“please”) and sets a boundary respectfully.
Rewrite for Respect (Model Answer)
Original: “You’re so stupid for missing that answer.”
Respectful Rewrite (example):
“Hey, I noticed you missed that question. Do you want to talk through it together so you feel more confident next time?”
Rubric for Rewrite (2 points total)
- 1 point: Uses polite language (e.g., “please,” “let’s,” positive tone).
- 1 point: Offers support or encouragement rather than insult.
Your Own Scenario (Scoring Guidance)
Students should:
- Describe a brief situation where one student helps another (e.g., carrying books, explaining homework, inviting to a group).
- Explain why it demonstrates respect (mentions kindness, fairness, listening, inclusion).
Rubric (3 points total):
- 1 point: Clear scenario showing help.
- 1 point: Explanation mentions a respect quality (kindness, fairness, listening, etc.).
- 1 point: Language is specific and coherent (details make sense).
Session 1 Quiz Answer Key
- Which of the following best defines respect?
Correct Answer: A. Treating others with kindness, fairness, and consideration. - Which of these is the best example of bullying?
Correct Answer: A. Calling a classmate mean names every day. - What does profanity mean?
Correct Answer: B. Using rude, disrespectful, or offensive words. - Read the scenario: “Kim helps Jordan pick up dropped books in the hallway without being asked.” What type of behavior is this?
Correct Answer: A. Respectful - Rewrite the rude comment below to make it respectful.
Original: “You’re so stupid for missing that answer.”**Scoring Rubric (2 points total):**Example full credit response: “I see you missed that question. Would you like me to go over it with you so you understand it better?”- 1 point: Includes polite wording (e.g., “please,” “let’s,” constructive tone).
- 1 point: Provides support or encouragement rather than insulting language.
- Name one way you can show respect to a classmate who seems left out.**Scoring Rubric (2 points total):**Example full credit response: “I would invite them to join my lunch group because including someone makes them feel valued and not alone.”
- 1 point: Student’s action is appropriate and respectful (e.g., invite them to sit with you, ask if they need help, include them in a game).
- 1 point: Student explains why this action shows respect (mentions kindness, inclusion, caring).
Use this answer key to guide grading of both the worksheet and the quiz. For open-response items, refer to the rubrics to assign partial or full credit.
Lesson Plan
Respect Rally Session 2
Students will learn conflict resolution strategies, practice helping peers, and reinforce respectful communication through role-play, games, and a quick assessment.
Building on respect foundations, these skills empower students to resolve conflicts peacefully, support classmates, and maintain a positive classroom environment.
Audience
6th-8th Grade Middle School Students
Time
30 minutes
Approach
Role-play, discussion, interactive game, and quick assessment.
Materials
- Conflict Resolution Strategies Reading, - Conflict Resolution Role-Play Cards, - Chart Paper and Markers, - Helping Hands Worksheet, - Respect Relay Game Cards, and - Session 2 Quiz
Prep
Prepare Session 2 Materials
10 minutes
- Print copies of Conflict Resolution Strategies Reading for each student.
- Copy and cut out Conflict Resolution Role-Play Cards and Respect Relay Game Cards.
- Print enough Helping Hands Worksheet for each student.
- Print or prepare digitally the Session 2 Quiz.
- Gather chart paper and markers.
- Review conflict resolution steps: calm down, listen, talk it out, find a solution.
Step 1
Warm-Up Review
5 minutes
- Ask students to revisit one of the “We will…” norms from Session 1.
- Invite volunteers to share a time they used that norm to handle a disagreement.
- Emphasize that norms guide respectful behavior during conflicts.
Step 2
Reading & Discussion
5 minutes
- Distribute Conflict Resolution Strategies Reading.
- In pairs, read and underline the four steps for resolving conflicts: Calm Down, Listen, Talk It Out, Find a Solution.
- Debrief: Which step seems most challenging? How can we practice it?
Step 3
Role-Play Practice
8 minutes
- Divide students into small groups; give each group a set of Conflict Resolution Role-Play Cards.
- Pairs act out a scenario, applying the conflict resolution steps.
- After each role-play, classmates offer one positive feedback and one constructive suggestion.
- Rotate cards so each group practices different scenarios.
Step 4
Helping Hands Worksheet
5 minutes
- Distribute Helping Hands Worksheet.
- Students complete scenarios by outlining how they would help a peer in need, using respectful actions.
- Invite a few students to share their responses.
Step 5
Respect Relay Game
5 minutes
- Form two teams. Place Respect Relay Game Cards face down in the center.
- One student from each team runs to pick a card, reads the scenario aloud, and their team decides if it shows respect or needs intervention.
- Teams explain their classification and suggested respectful response. Award points for correct answers.
Step 6
Session 2 Quiz
2 minutes
- Distribute Session 2 Quiz.
- Students complete the short quiz independently as an exit ticket.
- Collect quizzes to assess understanding and guide future instruction.
Reading
Conflict Resolution Strategies Reading
Conflict can happen when people disagree, feel upset, or misunderstand each other. Using a clear process to resolve conflicts helps everyone feel heard and find a fair solution. Below are four steps you can follow whenever you need to solve a disagreement.
1. Calm Down
Before talking, take a moment to breathe and relax. When we are angry or upset, we may say things we don’t mean. Try these quick strategies:
- Deep Breath: Inhale slowly through your nose and exhale through your mouth three times.
- Count to Five: Pause and count silently to five before you speak.
- Positive Self-Talk: Tell yourself, “I can stay calm and solve this.”
2. Listen
Give the other person your full attention. Listening shows respect and helps you understand their feelings and point of view.
- Make Eye Contact: Look at the speaker without interrupting.
- Body Language: Nod or use “uh-huh” to show you’re listening.
- Ask Questions: If you’re unsure, ask, “Can you tell me more about how you feel?”
3. Talk It Out
Once both sides feel calm and listened to, share your thoughts and feelings respectfully.
- Use “I” Statements: Say “I feel…” instead of “You always…” to avoid blaming.
- Be Specific: Describe exactly what happened and how it affected you.
- Stay Respectful: Speak politely; avoid name-calling or yelling.
4. Find a Solution
Work together to decide on a fair outcome that respects everyone’s needs.
- Brainstorm Options: List possible ways to fix the problem.
- Agree on a Plan: Choose the solution that feels best for both people.
- Follow Through: Put the plan into action and check back later to see if it’s working.
Example Scenario:
Jamie and Taylor both want to use the same computer during free time. They feel upset when they can’t agree.
- They calm down by taking deep breaths.
- Jamie listens while Taylor explains, “I need the computer for my project.”
- Taylor listens to Jamie’s concerns about finishing math homework.
- Together, they find a solution: Jamie uses the computer first, and Taylor goes next. They set a timer so each gets equal time.
By following these four steps—Calm Down, Listen, Talk It Out, and Find a Solution—you can turn conflicts into opportunities to understand each other and strengthen your relationships.
Activity
Conflict Resolution Role-Play Cards
Print and cut out each card below. In pairs, draw a card and act out the scenario, using the four conflict resolution steps: Calm Down, Listen, Talk It Out, and Find a Solution. After the role-play, discuss what went well and how you could improve.
1. Alex and Jordan both need to use the only laptop in class for a research project at the same time. They begin arguing over who goes first.
2. Sara borrowed Emma’s colored pencils without asking. Emma feels upset and confronts Sara in front of other classmates.
3. Carlos feels that during group work, Mia ignores his ideas and makes decisions without including him.
4. Zoe accidentally spills water on Riley’s art project, ruining part of it, and Riley is angry.
5. Two friends, Lily and Ava, disagree about which game to play at recess and start yelling at each other.
6. Sam overhears a rumor that Riley said something mean about them. Sam wants to confront Riley but isn’t sure what to say.
7. Ben and Max both want to lead their team’s presentation. They keep interrupting each other and can’t agree.
8. During math class, Priya thinks Lee cheated on a problem and Lee becomes defensive and accuses Priya of not trusting them.
Cut along the lines above to create eight individual scenario cards. Use these to practice calm, respectful communication and problem-solving.
Worksheet
Helping Hands Worksheet
Name: _______________________ Date: ____________
Directions
Read each situation below. In the space provided, describe how you would help your peer using respectful actions and the conflict‐resolution steps (Calm Down, Listen, Talk It Out, a Solution). Then explain why your approach shows respect.
- During lunch, Sam notices Alex sitting alone and looking upset.
How I would help Sam: _________________________________________________________
Why this is respectful: _______________________________________________________
- Mia is frustrated because she can’t figure out a math problem and is about to give up.
How I would help Mia: _________________________________________________________
Why this is respectful: _______________________________________________________
- Jordan dropped all of Riley’s books in the hallway and Riley looks overwhelmed.
How I would help Riley: _______________________________________________________
Why this is respectful: _______________________________________________________
- Priya overhears that Lee might be left out of a group project and seems nervous to ask for help.
How I would help Lee: _________________________________________________________
Why this is respectful: _______________________________________________________
- Two classmates are arguing over whose turn it is to use the class computer.
How I would help them resolve it: _____________________________________________
Why this is respectful: _______________________________________________________
Game
Respect Relay Game Cards
Print and cut out each card below. Place cards face down in the center. During the relay, one student from each team runs, draws a card, reads the scenario aloud, and their team must:
• Decide whether the scenario shows respect or needs intervention
• If it shows respect, explain why
• If it needs intervention, suggest a respectful response or solution
Award points for correct classifications and thoughtful responses. Rotate relay runners so multiple students participate.
1. Lily includes Jonah in a game at recess when he was alone.
2. Maya and Emma both want the same chair and start shouting at each other.
3. Carlos accidentally spills paint on Sam’s drawing, and Sam looks upset.
4. Tyler compliments Zoe on her new shoes.
5. Jay calls someone “dumb” for missing a question in class.
6. Priya listens quietly while her friend shares a personal problem.
7. Alex and Jordan argue over who goes first at the computer and won’t compromise.
8. Emma mutters a swear word under her breath when frustrated with homework.
9. Sam picks up Anna’s books that fell, offering help without being asked.
10. Dylan spreads a false rumor about Mia to other classmates.
11. Olivia encourages Lily before her presentation, saying, “You’ll do great!”
12. Two students argue about their team’s project topic and refuse to listen to each other.
Cut along the lines above to create 12 individual scenario cards. Use these to reinforce classifying respectful behavior and practicing respectful interventions in real time.
Quiz
Session 2 Quiz
Answer Key
Session 2 Answer Key
This answer key covers the Session 2 Quiz (Session 2 Quiz). Use the rubrics below to assign full or partial credit for open-response items.
Quiz Answer Key
- How confident are you in using the conflict resolution steps?
• Self-assessment question; no right or wrong answer. - Which of these is the first step in the conflict resolution process?
Correct Answer: A. Calm Down - Which step involves giving the other person your full attention without interrupting and asking questions to understand their point of view?
Correct Answer: B. Listen - Which step focuses on brainstorming possible ways to fix the problem and agreeing on a fair plan?
Correct Answer: D. Find a Solution - Describe one respectful action you could take to help a classmate who seems upset or left out. Explain why this shows respect.
**Scoring Rubric (2 points total):**Example full-credit response:
“I would invite them to sit with me at lunch and ask if they’re okay because including someone makes them feel welcome and shows I care about their feelings.”
- 1 point: Clear, appropriate action (e.g., inviting them to join you, offering help, asking if they need to talk).
- 1 point: Explanation of respect (mentions inclusion, kindness, listening, making someone feel valued).
- Briefly explain why staying calm (the Calm Down step) is important when resolving conflicts.
**Scoring Rubric (2 points total):**Example full-credit response:
“Staying calm helps me avoid shouting or blaming, so I can really listen to the other person and work together to find a fair solution.”- 1 point: Importance of calm (e.g., prevents saying hurtful words, reduces anger, keeps discussion respectful).
- 1 point: Connection to problem-solving (explains how calm leads to clearer thinking or better listening).
Use this answer key to guide grading and to provide constructive feedback on students’ understanding of conflict resolution and respectful actions.