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The Science of Kindness

Lesson Plan

The Science of Kindness

Explore the science behind kindness

In this lesson, students will explore the science behind kindness and its effects on the brain and body. Through engaging activities and discussions, students will learn about the biological benefits of being kind, such as the release of feel-good hormones and the strengthening of social connections. This lesson is important as it helps students understand the positive impact of kindness on their well-being and encourages them to practice kindness in their daily lives.

Audience

5th Grade Students

Time

45 mins

Approach

Explore the science behind kindness

Materials

Post-it notes, Pens, Discussion Questions, Worksheet: Kindness Experiment, and Quiz: Science of Kindness

Step 1

Introduction to Kindness

5 mins

  • Begin with a brief discussion on what kindness means to the students.
  • Ask students to share examples of kind acts they have experienced or witnessed.
  • Explain that today they will learn about the science behind kindness.

Step 2

Kindness Experiment

15 mins

  • Distribute the 'Kindness Experiment' worksheet to each student.
  • Guide students through a simple experiment where they perform a kind act (e.g., writing a kind note to a classmate).
  • Ask students to observe and note any changes in their feelings or mood after performing the act.

Step 3

Discussion on Biological Benefits

10 mins

  • Use the discussion questions to facilitate a conversation about the biological effects of kindness.
  • Discuss how kindness can release hormones like oxytocin and endorphins, which promote happiness and reduce stress.
  • Encourage students to share their observations from the experiment.

Step 4

Reflection and Sharing

10 mins

  • Ask students to reflect on how they felt during the experiment and share their thoughts with the class.
  • Discuss how practicing kindness can improve relationships and create a positive environment.

Step 5

Closure and Quiz

5 mins

  • Summarize the key points of the lesson.
  • Distribute the 'Science of Kindness' quiz to assess understanding.
  • Collect the quizzes and provide feedback in the next class.
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Discussion

Discussion Questions: Kindness

A set of questions to guide a discussion on the biological benefits of kindness.

What are some biological effects of kindness on the brain?

Discuss the release of hormones like oxytocin and endorphins.







How does kindness affect our relationships with others?

Explore how kindness can strengthen social bonds and improve communication.







Can you think of a time when being kind made you feel good?

Encourage students to share personal experiences and relate them to the lesson.







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Worksheet

Worksheet: Kindness Experiment

A worksheet to guide students through a simple experiment on the effects of kindness.

Describe the kind act you performed.








How did you feel before and after performing the kind act?








What changes did you notice in your mood or feelings?








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Quiz

Quiz: Science of Kindness

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The Science of Kindness • Lenny Learning