Class Discussion Guide: Support vs. Teasing

Introduction (5 minutes)

• Teacher Script: "Good morning/afternoon, everyone. Today we're going to have an important conversation about how we treat each other. Every day, we make choices about how we interact with our classmates, and those choices have a big impact. We're going to explore what that impact looks like."
• Transition to Warm-Up: "Let's start by thinking about our own experiences. I want everyone to take a moment of quiet reflection, eyes on the screen, and think about the two questions you see on the Support vs. Teasing Slide Deck."

Warm-Up: Think-Pair-Share Debrief (5 minutes)

• Teacher Script: "Now that you've had a chance to reflect and share with a partner, let's hear some general thoughts. When someone supported you, how did that feel? (Accept various positive feelings like 'confident,' 'happy,' 'brave.') And when someone teased you, how did that feel? (Accept various negative feelings like 'sad,' 'angry,' 'small.')"
• Key Question: "Why do you think those feelings are so different?"

Guided Discussion: Exploring Scenarios (15 minutes)

• Teacher Script: "Thank you for sharing. It's clear that our words and actions have a powerful effect. Now, let's look at some scenarios together and think deeply about the choices we make and their outcomes."

Scenario 1: Group Project (Slide 4)

• Prompt: "Imagine a classmate is struggling with their part of a group project. They seem confused and are having trouble keeping up."
• Discussion Questions:
  • "What might happen if you tease them about their struggles? (Think about their feelings, their motivation, the project outcome, and how it reflects on you and the group.)"
  • "What might happen if you offer support and help, maybe by explaining something or suggesting a way to work together? (Again, consider their feelings, motivation, the project, and the group dynamic.)"
  • "How does choosing to tease impact the learning environment for everyone? How does choosing to support impact it?"

Scenario 2: New Skill (Slide 5)

• Prompt: "A classmate tries a new skill in front of others (e.g., presenting, playing a sport, solving a problem) and makes a mistake. Maybe they stumble over words or drop the ball."
• Discussion Questions:
  • "What are the immediate and potential long-term outcomes if you tease them for making a mistake? (Consider how they might feel about trying again, how others might feel about trying new things, and the overall classroom culture.)"
  • "What are the immediate and potential long-term outcomes if you encourage and support them, perhaps by saying, 'Good try!' or 'Keep practicing!'? (Think about resilience, bravery, and creating a supportive space.)"
  • "How does how we react to mistakes affect a person's willingness to take risks and learn?"

Scenario 3: Different Interests (Slide 6)

• Prompt: "A classmate has an interest or hobby that is different from what is considered 'popular.' Maybe they love a niche video game, collect obscure items, or enjoy a unique art form."
• Discussion Questions:
  • "What is the impact if you make fun of their interest? How might that make them feel, and what might they do as a result?"
  • "What is the impact if you show interest or respect their choice, even if it's not something you'd do? How does this change the dynamic between you and them?"
  • "Why is it important to respect differences, and what happens when we don't?"

Reflect and Commit (7 minutes)

• Teacher Script: "We've talked about a lot today, and it's clear that our choices matter. Before we wrap up, I want us to think about ourselves."
• Prompt: "Look at Slide 7 on the Support vs. Teasing Slide Deck. What is one specific way you can choose to be more supportive in your interactions with classmates this week? It could be something small, like a compliment, or something bigger, like offering help."
• Activity: Allow students to reflect for a minute. Invite volunteers to share their commitment with the class or in small groups.

Cool-Down: One Word Reflection (3 minutes)

• Teacher Script: "To end our discussion, I want you to think of just one word that describes how you want your classmates to feel when they interact with you. Think about kindness, respect, understanding... Just one word."
• Activity: Have students share their word as they exit the classroom, or write it on a sticky note to turn in. Examples: 'Safe,' 'Happy,' 'Respected,' 'Included.'`