Lesson Plan
Facilitator Guide Say It So They Hear It
Students will learn to communicate feelings respectfully by crafting I-messages with feeling, behavior, impact, and request components, and practice active listening using the Listening Ladder. They’ll demonstrate both skills with at least 80% accuracy during partner role-plays.
Clear self-expression and active listening build empathy, reduce conflicts, and foster positive classroom relationships. Mastering I-messages and listening ladders empowers students to resolve disagreements respectfully.
Audience
Time
Approach
Materials
Prep
Review and Print Materials
5 minutes
Step 1
Introduce Assertiveness vs. Aggression/Passivity
7 minutes
Step 2
Model an I-Message
8 minutes
Step 3
Demonstrate the Listening Ladder
5 minutes
Step 4
Partner Practice with Coaching
15 minutes
Step 5
Role-Play Scenarios
7 minutes
Step 6
Reflection and Assessment
3 minutes

Slide Deck
Say It So They Hear It
Assertiveness vs. Aggression & Passivity
I-Message Components
Listening Ladder Steps

Script


Worksheet


Discussion

