Lesson Plan
What’s Behind Their Smile?
Students will identify and interpret facial expressions to infer emotions in themselves and others, practice empathy by discussing perspectives, and reflect on feelings. Standards: CASEL Social Awareness – Empathy Development.
Understanding emotions behind expressions fosters empathy and social awareness, helping students build positive relationships and a supportive classroom community.
Audience
Time
Approach
Materials
Prep
Prepare Materials
10 minutes
Step 1
Warm-Up: Mystery Mood Match
5 minutes
Step 2
Presentation: Expression Explorers
10 minutes
Step 3
Activity: Emotion Charades
15 minutes
Step 4
Journaling: Feelings Reflection
10 minutes
Step 5
Cool-Down: Empathy Exit Ticket
5 minutes
Slide Deck
Expression Explorers
Why Study Expressions?
Happy
Sad
Surprised
Angry
Think & Discuss
Key Takeaways
Warm Up
Activity
Journal
Cool Down
