Lesson Plan
Circle of Friends Lesson Plan
Engage 4th graders in sharing, empathy scenarios, and reflection to deepen their understanding of friendship qualities and encourage acts of kindness among peers.
Building a positive classroom community through friendship discussions and empathy practice boosts students’ social-emotional skills, fosters inclusion, and promotes supportive peer relationships.
Audience
Time
Approach
Materials
Prep
Teacher Preparation
5 minutes
Step 1
Welcome and Greeting
2 minutes
Step 2
Share and Connect
4 minutes
Step 3
Empathy Activity
5 minutes
Step 4
Reflection and Closing
4 minutes
Lesson Plan
Buddy Up Circle Lesson Plan
Guide 4th graders to explore friendship traits, practice empathetic communication through scenarios, and commit to a kind action they will carry out today.
Encouraging empathy and kind communication strengthens peer relationships, builds trust, and fosters an inclusive, supportive classroom community to enhance students’ social-emotional growth.
Audience
Time
Approach
Materials
Prep
Teacher Preparation
5 minutes
Step 1
Welcome and Greeting
2 minutes
Step 2
Share and Connect
4 minutes
Step 3
Empathy Activity
5 minutes
Step 4
Reflection and Closing
4 minutes
Slide Deck
Buddy Up Circle
Welcome & Greeting
Share & Connect
Empathy Activity
Reflection & Closing
Worksheet
Worksheet
