Storytelling Circles for Empathy

Victoria Douglas

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Storytelling Circles for Empathy

Enhance empathy through storytelling

In this lesson, students will participate in storytelling circles where they share personal stories related to a chosen theme such as kindness or overcoming challenges. This activity is designed to enhance active listening skills and empathy as students learn from others' experiences and perspectives. By engaging in this exercise, students will develop a deeper understanding of their peers and the importance of empathy in everyday interactions.

Audience

Grades 3-8

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Enhance empathy through storytelling

Materials

Discussion Guide, Exit Ticket, Post-it Notes, and Pens

Step 1

Introduction

5 mins

Begin with a brief discussion on the importance of empathy and active listening.
Explain the activity: students will share personal stories in small groups.
Set the theme for the storytelling (e.g., kindness, overcoming challenges).

Step 2

Storytelling Circles

15 mins

Divide students into small groups of 4-5.
Each student takes turns sharing a personal story related to the theme.
Encourage active listening by having students note down key points or feelings they relate to on post-it notes.

Step 3

Group Reflection

5 mins

After storytelling, each group discusses what they learned from each other's stories.
Use the discussion guide to facilitate conversation about empathy and understanding.

Step 4

Closure

5 mins

Bring the class back together and ask volunteers to share insights from their group discussions.
Distribute exit tickets for students to reflect on what they learned about empathy and listening.

Discussion

Discussion Guide

This guide will help facilitate group discussions after storytelling circles, focusing on empathy and understanding.

What did you learn from your peers' stories?

Encourage students to share specific insights or feelings they experienced.

How did listening to others' experiences make you feel?

Guide students to express emotions and thoughts that arose during the activity.

Why is empathy important in our daily lives?

Discuss the role of empathy in building relationships and understanding others.

Quiz

Exit Ticket