Lesson Plan

Lesson Plan

Students will understand PTSD responses in peers and learn how to recognize and empathize with these behaviors to create a supportive school environment.

This lesson fosters empathy and understanding, helping students support peers with PTSD and encourages respectful, inclusive interactions.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Preparation

10 minutes

Step 1

Introduction

5 minutes

Step 2

Video Viewing

5 minutes

Step 3

Guided Discussion

15 minutes

Step 4

Empathy Activity

15 minutes

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Slide Deck

Understanding PTSD: Building Empathy in High School

Introduce the lesson with purpose and set the tone. Emphasize that the deck will review key aspects of PTSD and how to recognize and support affected peers. Mention that language and visuals are simplified for clarity, especially for ENL students.

What is PTSD?

Define PTSD in simple, clear terms. Explain that it is a response to trauma and that affected individuals might display various behaviors. Provide examples relevant to high school experiences.

Common Symptoms of PTSD

List common symptoms in language that is accessible. Incorporate visuals where possible to support comprehension, especially for ENL students.

PTSD in a High School Context

Discuss how PTSD might present in a high school setting. Mention specific behaviors or responses students might observe in their peers, reiterating the importance of empathy and understanding.

How Can We Support Our Peers?

Introduce strategies for supporting peers with PTSD. Stress the importance of asking how they can help and being a good listener. Encourage respectful communication.

Conclusion & Reflection

Summarize the key takeaways of the lesson and reiterate the importance of empathy and understanding. Provide time for final questions and reflections.

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Activity

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Activity

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Understanding PTSD: Building Empathy in High School

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