Understanding Grief: A Journey of Healing

Shaniquia Bethany

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Understanding Grief: A Journey of Healing

Learn about stages of grief

This lesson introduces 6th-grade students to the concept of grief, helping them understand the stages and how to cope with the loss of a loved one. Through discussions and activities, students will learn to express their emotions and identify supportive resources. This lesson is important as it equips students with emotional tools to handle loss, fostering resilience and empathy.

Audience

6th Grade Students

Time

45 mins

Approach

Learn about stages of grief

Materials

Discussion Questions, Grief Stages Worksheet, Coping Strategies Handout, Markers, and Paper

Step 1

Introduction

5 mins

Begin with a brief discussion on what grief is and why it's a natural response to loss.
Ask students if they have heard of the term 'grief' and what it means to them.

Step 2

Understanding Grief Stages

10 mins

Introduce the stages of grief: Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, Acceptance.
Use the Grief Stages Worksheet to explain each stage briefly.
Encourage students to ask questions about each stage.

Step 3

Coping Strategies

10 mins

Discuss different coping strategies such as talking to someone, writing, drawing, or engaging in physical activities.
Distribute the Coping Strategies Handout and review it with the class.

Step 4

Activity: Expressing Emotions

15 mins

Provide students with paper and markers.
Ask them to draw or write about a time they felt sad and how they coped with it.
Encourage sharing in small groups to foster a supportive environment.

Step 5

Closure

5 mins

Recap the stages of grief and coping strategies discussed.
Encourage students to reach out to trusted adults or friends when they feel overwhelmed.
Thank students for their participation and remind them that it's okay to feel and express emotions.

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Discussion

Discussion Questions

A set of questions to facilitate a class discussion on grief and coping mechanisms.

What does grief mean to you?

Encourage students to share personal definitions and experiences.

Why do you think people experience different stages of grief?

Discuss the variability in emotional responses and personal experiences.

What are some healthy ways to cope with grief?

Guide students to think about positive coping mechanisms like talking, art, or exercise.

Worksheet

Grief Stages Worksheet

A worksheet to help students understand the stages of grief.

List the five stages of grief and write a brief description of each.

Which stage do you think is the most challenging and why?

Consider personal experiences or stories you've heard.

Reading

Coping Strategies Handout

A handout providing students with various strategies to cope with grief.

Coping Strategies for Grief

Talk to Someone: Share your feelings with a trusted friend or adult.
Write it Down: Keep a journal of your thoughts and emotions.
Art and Creativity: Draw, paint, or engage in creative activities to express yourself.
Physical Activity: Exercise or play sports to help manage stress.
Mindfulness and Relaxation: Practice deep breathing or meditation to calm your mind.