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Words Matter: Understanding Impact

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Jamie Nikopoulos

Tier 1
For Schools

Lesson Plan

Words Matter: Understanding Impact

Understand impact of words and behaviors

This lesson aims to help students understand the impact their words and behaviors can have on others. Through a combination of video, discussion, and activities, students will explore the consequences of bullying and the importance of empathy and communication. This lesson is crucial for fostering a supportive and respectful classroom environment, especially for students with challenging behaviors.

Audience

7th Grade Students

Time

45 minutes

Approach

Collaborative Learning, Project-Based Learning, Game-Based Learning, Trauma-Informed Teaching, Restorative Practices, Experiential Learning, Active Learning

Materials

Video: Short Film: Are You Okay?, Worksheet: Reflecting on Words and Actions, Reading: Understanding Empathy, and Pens and Paper

Step 1

Introduction

5 mins

  • Begin with a brief discussion on the power of words and actions.
  • Ask students to share examples of when words have impacted them positively or negatively.

Step 2

Video Viewing

10 mins

  • Show the video Short Film: Are You Okay?.
  • Ask students to note down their thoughts and feelings during the video.

Step 3

Group Discussion

10 mins

  • Divide students into small groups to discuss their reactions to the video.
  • Use the discussion questions from the worksheet to guide the conversation.

Step 4

Activity: Empathy in Action

15 mins

  • Have students participate in a role-playing activity where they act out scenarios involving bullying and empathy.
  • Encourage students to reflect on how different responses can change the outcome of a situation.

Step 5

Closure

5 mins

  • Bring the class back together to share insights from the activity.
  • Distribute the reading handout on empathy and encourage students to read it at home.
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Worksheet

Reflecting on Words and Actions

This worksheet helps students reflect on the impact of their words and actions, using prompts related to the video and class discussion.

What was your initial reaction to the video?

Think about how the video made you feel.







Describe a time when someone's words affected you.

Consider both positive and negative experiences.







How can you use empathy to improve your interactions with others?

Think about putting yourself in someone else's shoes.







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Reading

Understanding Empathy

This reading provides an overview of empathy, its importance in social interactions, and how it can be practiced in daily life.

Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person. It is a crucial skill for building strong, supportive relationships. Practicing empathy involves actively listening to others, considering their perspectives, and responding with kindness and understanding. By fostering empathy, we can create a more inclusive and respectful community.

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