Lesson Plan

Blueprint for Safe Zones

Students will collaboratively establish 5–7 classroom norms that promote emotional and physical safety and a sense of belonging, then commit to these guidelines through personal reflection.

Co-creating norms empowers students, builds ownership, and strengthens school climate by ensuring everyone’s voice is heard and respected.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Teacher Preparation

10 minutes

Step 1

Introduction and Purpose

5 minutes

Step 2

Brainstorming Norms

10 minutes

Step 3

Discussion and Consolidation

8 minutes

Step 4

Personal Reflection and Commitment

5 minutes

Step 5

Closing and Next Steps

2 minutes

Slide Deck

Respect in Action

Welcome students and introduce the purpose of today’s workshop. Explain that together you will create norms to make the classroom a safe, respectful place.

Why Classroom Norms?

Discuss why norms matter: reference examples from school, home, or teams. Highlight how clear expectations help everyone learn and feel valued.

Brainstorming Norms

Explain the group work process and distribute the Norms Poster Gallery sheets. Monitor groups and encourage creative, thoughtful ideas.

Consolidating Ideas

Invite each group to share their top norms. Cluster similar ideas, refine language, and guide the class to settle on 5–7 actionable norms.

Reflection & Commitment

Hand out the Personal Safety Pledge journals. Ask students to reflect on why the norms matter and sign their commitment. Explain how you’ll use these pledges moving forward.

Lesson Plan

Blueprint for Safe Zones

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Teacher Preparation

Step 1

Introduction and Purpose

Step 2

Brainstorming Norms

Step 3

Discussion and Consolidation

Step 4

Personal Reflection and Commitment

Step 5

Closing and Next Steps

Slide Deck

Respect in Action

Why Classroom Norms?

Brainstorming Norms

Consolidating Ideas

Reflection & Commitment

Activity

Journal

Safe Spaces Only

Taryn