Teacher's Script: Your Boundary Blueprint

Warm-Up: Boundary Brainstorm (5 minutes)

"Good morning/afternoon, everyone. To get us started today, I’d like you to think about a word: boundaries. What does that word mean to you? What comes to mind when you hear it, or when you think about it in your own life? Take a few minutes to jot down your thoughts and a few examples on the Boundary Brainstorm Warm-Up sheet I just handed out. No need to share just yet, just get your ideas flowing."

(Allow 2-3 minutes for students to write.)

"Alright, let's hear a few of your initial thoughts. Who would like to share what they brainstormed about boundaries?"

(Facilitate a brief class discussion, writing key ideas on the board. Acknowledge all responses.)

"Great ideas! It sounds like many of you already have a good sense that boundaries have to do with limits, rules, and personal space. Today, we're going to dive deeper into what healthy boundaries are and why they're so important."

Introduction & What Are Boundaries? (10 minutes)

"(Transition to Your Boundary Blueprint Slide Deck - Slide 1)

Welcome to 'Your Boundary Blueprint: Building Healthy Connections.' Today's lesson is all about understanding and creating healthy boundaries in our lives. This is a crucial life skill that will help you in all your relationships, from friendships to family, and even online interactions."

"(Transition to Your Boundary Blueprint Slide Deck - Slide 2)

So, what exactly are healthy boundaries? Think of them as your personal space rules. They are the guidelines and limits we set in our relationships to protect our physical, emotional, and mental well-being. They help us feel safe, respected, and understood. When we have clear boundaries, we’re essentially telling others, and ourselves, what is okay and what is not okay."

"(Transition to Your Boundary Blueprint Slide Deck - Slide 3)

To help us kick things off, let's watch a short video that provides a great overview of healthy boundaries. As you watch, I want you to think about why setting boundaries might be important for you personally. Pay attention to any examples that resonate with your own experiences."

(Play the video from Slide 3. You may need to replace the placeholder link with an actual educational video on healthy boundaries for teens.)

"What were your key takeaways from the video? What did it highlight about why boundaries are important?"

Types of Boundaries (10 minutes)

"(Transition to Your Boundary Blueprint Slide Deck - Slide 4)

Boundaries aren't one-size-fits-all; they come in different forms. Let's start with Physical Boundaries. These are rules about your body, your personal space, and physical contact. For example, some people don't like hugs from certain people, or they need more personal space in a crowded area. Saying 'no' to unwanted physical touch is a really important physical boundary. Why do you think physical boundaries are so important?"

"(Transition to Your Boundary Blueprint Slide Deck - Slide 5)

Next, we have Emotional Boundaries. These are limits on emotional sharing and taking responsibility for other people's feelings. It means not feeling guilty for saying 'no' when you're overwhelmed, or not taking on someone else's bad mood as your own. It's about protecting your own emotional energy. Can anyone think of a time when they felt like someone was crossing an emotional boundary, or when they might have accidentally crossed someone else's?"

"(Transition to Your Boundary Blueprint Slide Deck - Slide 6)

In today's world, Digital Boundaries are incredibly important. These are rules about your online interactions, screen time, and digital privacy. This could be deciding how often you check social media, not sharing personal information with strangers, or even muting notifications during homework time. Why is it becoming more and more important to set digital boundaries?"

"(Transition to Your Boundary Blueprint Slide Deck - Slide 7)

There are also Time Boundaries (managing your commitments), Intellectual Boundaries (respecting different opinions), and Material Boundaries (how you share your belongings). The key takeaway here is that boundaries are unique to you! Now, I've handed out a short reading called Understanding Boundaries Reading. Please take a few minutes to read through it; it will reinforce what we've just discussed."

(Allow 3-4 minutes for students to read. Circulate and answer any questions.)

Communicating Boundaries (15 minutes)

"(Transition to Your Boundary Blueprint Slide Deck - Slide 8)

Knowing what boundaries are is one thing, but how do we actually communicate them effectively? It's all about being clear, direct, and respectful. Don't hint at what you need; state it plainly. A great tool for this is using 'I Statements.' This means focusing on your feelings and needs, rather than blaming the other person. For example, instead of saying, 'You always interrupt me,' you could say, 'I feel unheard when I am interrupted.' This communicates your boundary kindly but firmly. It might feel awkward at first, but it gets much easier with practice."

"(Transition to Your Boundary Blueprint Slide Deck - Slide 9)

Let's try a quick practice scenario. Imagine a friend keeps borrowing your things without asking and doesn't return them. How would you set a boundary using an 'I statement'? Take a moment to think, then turn to a partner and share what you would say."

(Allow 2-3 minutes for Think-Pair-Share. Then, bring the class back together.)

"Now, let's put this into action with our Role-Play Activity: Setting Boundaries. I've got some scenarios here. I need a few volunteers to role-play setting a boundary. Don't worry, we're all learning here!"

(Lead the role-play activity, offering constructive feedback and encouraging discussion after each scenario. Focus on how clear and respectful the communication was.)

Practice & Application: Boundary Scenarios (10 minutes)

"Great job with the role-play! Now, let's solidify our understanding. I'm handing out the Boundary Scenarios Worksheet. You can work individually or in small groups to respond to these scenarios. For each one, identify the type of boundary being crossed or needed, and then write down how you would communicate a healthy boundary using an 'I statement.'"

(Allow 5-7 minutes for students to work.)

"Let's quickly review a couple of the scenarios. What did you come up with for scenario #1?"

"If we have a few extra minutes, we can play a quick round of Boundary Bingo Game to review some of the concepts we've covered today!"

Cool-Down & Wrap-Up (5 minutes)

"(Transition to Your Boundary Blueprint Slide Deck - Slide 10)

We're almost out of time, but before we go, let's reflect. I've given you a Boundary Check-In Cool-Down sheet. On it, I want you to write down one new thing you learned today about healthy boundaries, or one boundary you feel is important for you to start practicing. This is your exit ticket for today."

(Collect the cool-downs as students leave.)

"Remember, healthy boundaries are about protecting your well-being, making your relationships stronger, and ensuring you feel respected. You absolutely have the right to set and enforce your boundaries. Thank you, everyone!"

Assessment & Further Engagement (Ongoing)

"For a quick check of understanding, you'll complete the Boundary Basics Quiz. The Boundary Basics Answer Key is for my use in grading. Later on, we will start a more in-depth assignment using the My Healthy Boundary Project Guide, which will be assessed using the Healthy Boundary Project Rubric. If this were part of a larger unit, we might also take a Healthy Boundaries Test at the end."

Boundary Brainstorm: What Do Boundaries Mean to YOU?

Instructions: Take a few minutes to silently brainstorm what the word "boundaries" means to you. Think about what they are, why they might be important, and any examples you can think of from your own life or observations.

My Initial Thoughts on Boundaries:

Examples of Boundaries I've Seen or Experienced:

Understanding Boundaries: Your Personal Rulebook

Imagine you have your own personal force field. This force field isn't visible, but it protects you and helps you interact with the world around you in a healthy way. That force field is a boundary.

Simply put, a boundary is a limit or a rule that helps you define what is acceptable and what is not acceptable in your relationships and interactions with others. They are like guidelines that protect your physical, emotional, and mental space. Healthy boundaries are essential for your well-being because they allow you to maintain your sense of self, feel respected, and build stronger, more honest relationships.

Why Are Boundaries Important?

• Self-Respect: Setting boundaries shows that you value yourself and your needs.
• Healthy Relationships: Clear boundaries lead to better understanding and less resentment between people.
• Emotional Protection: They prevent you from being overwhelmed or taken advantage of.
• Personal Space: They ensure your physical and emotional space is respected.
• Stress Reduction: Knowing your limits can reduce stress and anxiety.

Different Types of Boundaries

Boundaries aren't just about physical space; they apply to many areas of our lives. Here are some common types:

1. Physical Boundaries

These relate to your body, personal space, and physical touch. Examples include:

• Deciding who can touch you and how.
• Needing a certain amount of personal space when talking to someone.
• Not wanting others to go through your belongings without permission.

2. Emotional Boundaries

These protect your feelings and emotional energy. They help you decide what emotional information you share and how much responsibility you take for others' feelings. Examples include:

• Choosing not to take on a friend's bad mood.
• Sharing your feelings only when you feel safe and ready.
• Saying

Boundary Scenarios: What Would You Do?

Instructions: For each scenario below, identify the type of boundary being challenged or needed. Then, in the space provided, write down how you would set a healthy boundary using a clear and respectful "I statement." Remember to focus on your feelings and needs.

Scenario 1

Your friend, Alex, always texts you late at night (after 10 PM) asking for homework help. You often feel tired the next day because of the late messages.

Type of Boundary: _____________________________

How would you set a boundary?

Scenario 2

During a group project, one of your teammates, Sam, constantly interrupts you when you're speaking, dismissing your ideas without listening.

Type of Boundary: _____________________________

How would you set a boundary?

Scenario 3

Your older cousin, Maya, keeps trying to get you to share your social media passwords so she can "see what you're up to." You feel uncomfortable with this request.

Type of Boundary: _____________________________

How would you set a boundary?

Scenario 4

You lend your favorite book to a classmate, Chris, and they return it with torn pages and a spilled drink stain. This has happened with other items you've lent to them before.

Type of Boundary: _____________________________

How would you set a boundary?

Scenario 5

A family member often makes jokes about your appearance that make you feel hurt and self-conscious, even after you've hinted that you don't like it.

Type of Boundary: _____________________________

How would you set a boundary?

Role-Play Activity: Setting Boundaries

Instructions for Teacher: Divide students into pairs or small groups. Provide each group with one or more scenarios below. Instruct them to role-play the situation, with one student acting as the person setting the boundary and the other(s) acting as the person(s) receiving the boundary. Encourage them to use "I statements" and focus on clear, respectful communication.

After each role-play, facilitate a brief class discussion about what went well, what was challenging, and how the boundary communication could be improved.

Scenario Cards (Cut these out or present verbally)

Scenario 1: The Constant Borrower

Situation: Your friend always asks to copy your homework right before class, even though you've told them you prefer to work independently and that you need to focus on your own understanding.

Your Goal: Set a clear boundary about homework.

Scenario 2: The Over-Sharer

Situation: A classmate you don't know very well starts telling you very personal and dramatic stories during lunch, making you feel uncomfortable and overwhelmed.

Your Goal: Set an emotional boundary about personal sharing.

Scenario 3: The Late-Night Texter

Situation: Your group chat is constantly buzzing with messages late into the night, interrupting your sleep, even though you have school the next day.

Your Goal: Set a digital/time boundary for late-night messages.

Scenario 4: The Invader of Space

Situation: A peer in your class frequently leans over your desk, touches your papers, or stands very close to you when talking, making you feel crowded.

Your Goal: Set a physical boundary about personal space.

Scenario 5: The Opinion Dominator

Situation: In a class discussion, one student consistently cuts others off, insists their opinion is the only correct one, and makes others feel silly for sharing different ideas.

Your Goal: Set an intellectual boundary in a group setting (perhaps by speaking up for respectful discussion rules).

Discussion Questions After Role-Play:

1. How did it feel to set the boundary?
2. How did it feel to receive the boundary?
3. What was easy or difficult about using an "I statement"?
4. What are some challenges you might face when setting boundaries in real life?
5. What could be done differently next time to make the boundary even clearer or more effective?

Boundary Bingo Game

Instructions: This game is a fun way to review key concepts about healthy boundaries! Each student receives a Bingo card. The teacher will read out statements or ask questions related to boundaries. If the statement or answer applies to a square on your card, mark it. The first student to get five in a row (horizontally, vertically, or diagonally) shouts "BINGO!"

Boundary Bingo Card (Example)

Print and distribute unique cards to students, or have them create their own from a list of terms.

Bingo Call-Outs (Teacher Script)

(Read these statements/questions aloud. Students will mark the corresponding square if it applies.)

1. This type of boundary involves how you manage your schedule and commitments.
2. This is a phrase used to communicate your feelings without blaming others.
3. This boundary protects your personal information and interactions online.
4. It's important to be this when communicating your boundaries.
5. This boundary deals with your body and personal space.
6. This is what you might feel when you prioritize your own needs.
7. This helps you define what you're comfortable with in terms of sharing feelings.
8. The opposite of hinting at what you need.
9. This is a core component of a healthy relationship.
10. This type of boundary involves how you share your possessions.
11. You should do this before touching someone else's property.
12. This is what you gain when you set clear boundaries.
13. This involves managing when and how much you use social media.
14. This is a boundary related to respecting different ideas and opinions.
15. What you might set when someone gives you unwanted advice.
16. It's important to practice this to take care of your emotional and physical health.
17. Boundaries help establish these in relationships.
18. The way you stand or sit can communicate a lot about your comfort levels.
19. This is the understanding that others have about your limits.
20. This is what can happen if boundaries are consistently ignored.

Possible Answers/Terms for Students (for their own card creation, or for teacher reference):

• Time Boundary
• "I Feel" Statement
• Digital Boundary
• Respectful / Clear Communication
• Physical Boundary
• No Guilt / Empowered
• Emotional Boundary
• Direct
• Healthy Relationship
• Material Boundary
• Asking Permission
• Trust / Self-Respect
• Online Privacy / Screen Time
• Intellectual Boundary
• Unwanted Advice (can be an emotional or intellectual boundary)
• Self-Care
• Limits / Guidelines
• Body Language
• Understanding
• Consequences

Boundary Check-In: Cool-Down

Instructions: Please answer the following questions to reflect on what you learned about healthy boundaries today. This is your exit ticket!

1. What is one new thing you learned about healthy boundaries today?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

2. Why do you think it is important to set healthy boundaries in your relationships?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

3. Name one type of boundary you discussed today (e.g., physical, emotional, digital).
   
   
   
   

4. What is one boundary you feel is important for you to start practicing or communicating more clearly?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Boundary Basics Quiz: Answer Key

1. Which of the following best describes a healthy boundary?

• Correct Answer: Limits and guidelines you set for yourself in relationships.
• Thought Process: Healthy boundaries are about self-regulation and personal protection, not controlling others or making relationships harder. They define what you are comfortable with.

2. If someone asks to borrow your phone and starts looking through your private messages without permission, what type of boundary is being crossed?

• Correct Answer: Digital boundary
• Thought Process: Private messages and online content fall under digital interactions and privacy, which are aspects of digital boundaries.

3. Which of these is an example of an "I statement" for setting a boundary?

• Correct Answer: "I feel overwhelmed when you ask me to do too many things."
• Thought Process: An "I statement" focuses on your feelings and the impact of the other person's action on you, without placing blame. Options A, C, and D are accusatory or demanding.

4. Explain in your own words why clear communication is important when setting boundaries.

• Expected Answer: Clear communication helps others understand your limits, reduces misunderstandings, and shows respect for both yourself and the other person. If boundaries aren't communicated clearly, others might unknowingly cross them, leading to frustration or conflict.
• Thought Process: Effective boundaries require the other party to understand what those boundaries are. Vague communication can lead to confusion and unintended boundary violations.

5. Protecting your feelings from being overwhelmed by someone else's problems is an example of what type of boundary?

• Correct Answer: Emotional boundary
• Thought Process: This relates directly to managing one's own emotional well-being and not taking on the emotional burden of others, which is the core of emotional boundaries.

My Healthy Boundary Project: Design Your Personal Boundary Blueprint

Project Goal

To apply your understanding of healthy boundaries by designing a

Healthy Boundary Project Rubric

Project Title: My Healthy Boundary Project
Student Name: ________________________
Date: ___________________________

Teacher Feedback:

Student Comments:

Healthy Boundaries Test: Answer Key

1. Which of the following is the primary purpose of setting healthy boundaries?

• Correct Answer: To protect your personal well-being and foster respectful relationships.
• Thought Process: Healthy boundaries are fundamentally about self-care and improving the quality of relationships by defining acceptable interactions, not about control or avoidance.

2. If you feel uncomfortable when a classmate constantly touches your arm during conversations, you are experiencing a challenge with what type of boundary?

• Correct Answer: Physical boundary
• Thought Process: This scenario directly involves personal space and unwanted physical contact, which are aspects of physical boundaries.

3. Which phrase is NOT an example of an effective 'I statement' for setting a boundary?

• Correct Answer: "You always interrupt me, and it's rude."
• Thought Process: An effective 'I statement' focuses on the speaker's feelings and the impact of the action, without placing blame or judgment on the other person. The incorrect option is accusatory.

4. Describe two benefits of having clear digital boundaries.

• Expected Answer: Two benefits include: 1) Protecting your privacy and personal information online (e.g., from sharing too much or from unwanted access), and 2) Managing screen time to reduce distractions, improve focus, and promote better sleep or mental well-being.
• Thought Process: Digital boundaries help manage online interactions and technology use, directly impacting privacy and mental/physical health.

5. A friend regularly asks you to prioritize their needs over your own plans, making you feel guilty if you decline. This is a sign of a potential issue with what type of boundary?

• Correct Answer: Emotional boundary
• Thought Process: Feeling guilty or pressured to manage another person's emotions or always cater to their needs points to a struggle with emotional boundaries, where one's own emotional space and capacity are being overlooked.

6. On a scale of 1 (Strongly Disagree) to 5 (Strongly Agree), how confident do you feel in identifying different types of healthy boundaries?

• Correct Answer: Varies by student. (This is a self-assessment question, so the 'correct' answer depends on the student's perception.)
• Thought Process: This is a Likert scale question designed to gauge student self-efficacy and understanding. The answer key acknowledges its subjective nature.

7. Provide an example of a time boundary you might set for yourself and explain why it's important to you.

• Expected Answer: Example: "I will stop using social media an hour before bed." This is important to me because I feel that it helps me relax and fall asleep faster, improving my sleep quality.
• Thought Process: Students should identify a specific time-related limit and link it to a personal benefit or need.

8. What is a common challenge people face when trying to set boundaries?

• Correct Answer: Fear of upsetting others or being seen as mean.
• Thought Process: Setting boundaries can be difficult due to social anxieties and the desire to be liked or avoid conflict. The other options describe ideal or incorrect scenarios.

9. Imagine a situation where a friend is constantly asking to borrow your clothes without returning them or returning them damaged. How would you use an 'I statement' to communicate a material boundary to them?

• Expected Answer: Example: "I feel frustrated and disrespected when my clothes are borrowed without asking and returned damaged. I would appreciate it if you could ask me first, and if you can't guarantee their return in good condition, I won't be able to lend them out anymore."
• Thought Process: The response should include an 'I statement' expressing feelings, clearly state the boundary, and potentially outline consequences if the boundary is not respected.

10. Which characteristic is key to communicating a healthy boundary effectively?

• Correct Answer: Being clear, direct, and respectful.
• Thought Process: Effective boundary communication is firm yet kind, leaving no room for ambiguity while maintaining mutual respect. Aggression, vagueness, or disregard for others' feelings are counterproductive.