Lesson Plan

Empathy Expedition Plan

Students will explore empathy by role-playing diverse scenarios and reflecting on others’ feelings to foster deeper interpersonal understanding and respect.

Cultivating empathy helps students appreciate diverse perspectives, strengthens social connections, and builds essential emotional intelligence for positive relationships.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Prepare Materials

15 minutes

Step 1

Introduction

5 minutes

Step 2

Perspective Walk

20 minutes

Step 3

Group Discussion

15 minutes

Step 4

Reflection

10 minutes

Step 5

Assessment & Closure

10 minutes

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Slide Deck

Empathy Expedition: Understanding Others’ Perspectives

Welcome students to the Empathy Expedition. Introduce yourself and set a positive tone. Explain that today’s journey will help them understand others’ perspectives.

Learning Objectives

Read each objective aloud. Emphasize how each connects to real-life relationships.

Why Empathy Matters

Ask: Why do you think empathy matters? Jot down a few student responses before showing bullets.

Defining Empathy

Define and illustrate cognitive vs. emotional empathy with brief examples (e.g., understanding a friend’s stress vs. feeling their anxiety).

Today’s Agenda

Outline the session flow so students know what to expect and how time will be managed.

Activity: Perspective Walk

Explain how to use the Perspective Role Cards. Model one short role-play with a volunteer.

Group Discussion

Circulate among groups, prompt deeper sharing (e.g., “What surprised you?”).

Reflection Journals

Encourage thoughtful, honest responses. Remind students their journals are private but honest.

Exit Ticket & Closure

Collect exit tickets as students leave. Use their responses to inform next steps.

Next Steps: Practicing Empathy

Offer real-world examples of practicing empathy at home, school, and in the community.

Thank You!

Thank students for their participation. Preview any follow-up or extended activities.

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Activity

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Discussion

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Worksheet

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Empathy Expedition

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