Safety First: Understanding School Safety

Alicia Wilson

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Safety First: Understanding School Safety

Understanding school safety procedures

This lesson aims to help elementary students understand how their school keeps them safe, focusing on lockdowns and school safety procedures. By engaging in a collaborative activity, completing a worksheet, and participating in a discussion, students will gain a better understanding of the importance of safety measures. This lesson is crucial in ensuring that students feel secure and informed about the protocols in place to protect them.

Audience

Elementary Students

Time

20 minutes

Approach

Blended Learning, Active Learning, Collaborative Learning

Materials

Safety Procedures Worksheet, Discussion Questions, Markers, and Chart Paper

Step 1

Introduction

3 minutes

Begin by asking students if they know what a lockdown is and why it might happen.
Explain that today they will learn about how the school keeps them safe during emergencies.

Step 2

Collaborative Activity

5 minutes

Divide students into small groups and provide each group with chart paper and markers.
Ask each group to draw or write what they think happens during a school lockdown.
Encourage creativity and teamwork as they discuss and illustrate their ideas.

Step 3

Safety Drill Activity

5 minutes

Conduct a brief safety drill simulation.
Explain the steps of a lockdown drill: locking doors, turning off lights, and staying quiet and out of sight.
Practice these steps with the students, ensuring they understand the importance of each action.

Step 4

Worksheet Completion

3 minutes

Distribute the 'Safety Procedures Worksheet' to each student.
Instruct students to complete the worksheet individually, using what they learned from the group activity and drill.
Walk around to assist and answer any questions.

Step 5

Discussion

3 minutes

Gather students for a class discussion using the prepared questions.
Explain the difference between a soft lockdown and a hard lockdown:
- Soft Lockdown: Used for potential threats outside the school. Normal activities continue inside, but exterior doors are locked.
- Hard Lockdown: Used for immediate threats inside or near the school. Classroom doors are locked, lights off, and students stay quiet and out of sight.
Encourage students to share their thoughts and listen to others.
Highlight key points about the importance of school safety and lockdown procedures.

Step 6

Closure

1 minute

Recap the main points discussed in the lesson.
Remind students that these procedures are in place to keep them safe.
Thank students for their participation and reassure them about their safety at school.

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Discussion

Safety Procedures Discussion

A discussion to help students articulate their understanding of school safety and lockdown procedures.

Why do you think schools have lockdown procedures?

Guide students to understand the importance of safety and preparedness.

How do you feel about the safety measures in place at our school?

Encourage students to express their feelings and reassure them about their safety.

What should you do if you hear a lockdown announcement?

Discuss the steps students should take and the importance of staying calm.

Worksheet

Safety Procedures Worksheet

A worksheet to reinforce students' understanding of school safety procedures.

List three things you should do during a lockdown.

Think about staying quiet, listening to the teacher, and staying away from windows.

Why is it important to have safety drills at school?

Consider how drills help us prepare for real emergencies.

Draw a picture of a safe place in your classroom during a lockdown.

Think about areas away from doors and windows.