Understanding Racism: A Journey

Jennifer Daigle

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Understanding Racism: A Journey

Impact of negative racial comments

This lesson aims to help preteens understand the impact of negative racial comments and the history of racism through experiential and collaborative learning. By engaging in a reading, discussion, and activity, students will develop empathy and awareness of racial issues, fostering a more inclusive and respectful environment.

Audience

Preteens

Time

20 minutes

Approach

Experiential Learning, Restorative Practices, Collaborative Learning, Active Learning

Materials

Reading: History of Racism, Worksheet: Reflecting on Racial Comments, Discussion: Impact of Racial Comments, and Activity: Empathy Walk

Step 1

Introduction

2 minutes

Briefly introduce the topic of racism and its historical context.
Explain the importance of understanding the impact of racial comments.

Step 2

Reading

5 minutes

Distribute the reading material on the history of racism.
Ask students to read silently and highlight key points.

Step 3

Discussion

5 minutes

Facilitate a discussion using the provided questions.
Encourage students to share their thoughts and feelings about the reading.

Step 4

Activity

5 minutes

Conduct an 'Empathy Walk' where students imagine walking in someone else's shoes.
Guide them through scenarios where they experience racial comments.

Step 5

Closure

3 minutes

Summarize the key takeaways from the lesson.
Encourage students to reflect on how they can contribute to a more inclusive environment.

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Discussion

Impact of Racial Comments

A discussion to explore the emotional and social impact of racial comments.

How do negative racial comments affect individuals and communities?

Encourage students to think about emotional, social, and psychological impacts.

What can we do to prevent and address racial comments in our community?

Discuss strategies for intervention and support.

Worksheet

Reflecting on Racial Comments

A worksheet to help students reflect on the impact of racial comments and their role in promoting inclusivity.

Describe a situation where you witnessed or experienced a racial comment. How did it make you feel?

What actions can you take to support someone who has been affected by a racial comment?

Reading

History of Racism

A brief reading to provide students with historical context on racism.

Racism has been a part of human history for centuries, affecting millions of lives. Understanding its roots helps us recognize its impact today. This reading explores key events and figures in the history of racism, highlighting the importance of empathy and action in combating racial injustice.