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Words Matter: Understanding Impact

Lesson Plan

Words Matter: Understanding Impact

Understanding the impact of using racial slurs

This lesson aims to help 5th-grade students understand the impact of using racial slurs through active and collaborative learning strategies. By engaging in a video, discussion, and worksheet activities, students will explore the importance of respectful language and the consequences of harmful words. This lesson is crucial in fostering empathy and promoting a respectful classroom environment.

Audience

5th Grade Students

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Active Learning, Collaborative Learning, Restorative Practices

Materials

Video: The Power of Words, Discussion Questions, Worksheet: Words and Impact, and Reading: Historical Context of Racial Slurs

Step 1

Introduction

5 mins

  • Begin with a brief introduction about the power of words and how they can affect others.
  • Explain the objective of the lesson: understanding the impact of using racial slurs.

Step 2

Historical Context

5 mins

  • Provide a brief overview of the historical roots and impact of racial slurs.
  • Discuss how these words have been used to oppress and marginalize communities throughout history.

Step 3

Video Viewing

3 mins

  • Show the video The Power of Words.
  • Ask students to pay attention to how words can affect people's feelings and actions.

Step 4

Guided Discussion

10 mins

  • Use the discussion questions to facilitate a conversation about the video and the impact of words.
  • Encourage students to share their thoughts and experiences related to respectful and disrespectful language.

Step 5

Worksheet Activity

5 mins

  • Distribute the worksheet "Words and Impact."
  • Have students complete the worksheet individually or in pairs, reflecting on how words can impact others.
  • Discuss the answers as a class, highlighting key insights.

Step 6

Closure

2 mins

  • Summarize the key points discussed in the lesson.
  • Encourage students to think about how they can use words positively in their daily interactions.
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Discussion

Discussion on Words and Impact

A guided discussion to explore the impact of words, particularly racial slurs, on individuals and communities.

What did you learn from the video about the power of words?

Encourage students to reflect on specific examples from the video and relate them to their own experiences.







How do you think racial slurs affect the person they are directed at?

Guide students to consider the emotional and social impact of racial slurs.







Why is it important to use respectful language?

Discuss the role of language in building a positive and inclusive community.







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Worksheet

Words and Impact Worksheet

This worksheet helps students reflect on the impact of words and encourages them to think about how they can use language positively.

Write down a word or phrase that can hurt someone's feelings. Why is it hurtful?








Think of a time when someone used kind words with you. How did it make you feel?








List three ways you can use words to make others feel respected and valued.








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Reading

Historical Context of Racial Slurs

This reading provides a brief overview of the historical roots and impact of racial slurs, helping students understand the importance of avoiding such language.

Racial slurs have been used throughout history to demean and dehumanize individuals based on their race or ethnicity. These words often have roots in periods of colonization, slavery, and segregation, where they were used to assert dominance and control over marginalized groups. Understanding the historical context of these words helps us see why they are so harmful and why it's important to use language that respects and uplifts all individuals.

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