Lesson Plan

Heart of the Matter Outline

Students will identify and articulate their emotions and personal values, reflect on what triggers these feelings, and share insights to build self-awareness and empathy.

Developing emotional vocabulary and understanding personal values strengthens self-awareness, supports emotional regulation, and fosters empathy among peers.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Prepare Materials and Space

10 minutes

Step 1

Introduction

5 minutes

Step 2

Emotions Exploration

10 minutes

Step 3

Values Discovery

10 minutes

Step 4

Journal Activity

10 minutes

Step 5

Feelings Circle Reflection

8 minutes

Step 6

Wrap-Up

2 minutes

Slide Deck

Emotions Explorer

Introduce the session: set an inviting tone. Use warm colors from the theme.

What Are Emotions?

Explain definition simply and relate to everyday experiences.

Happy

Show an expressive happy face graphic. Ask students to mimic the smile.

Sad

Show a teardrop or frown image. Encourage students to share quietly.

Angry

Display an angry face with furrowed brows. Model taking deep breaths.

Surprised

Use a surprised emoji. Ask students to pretend they just heard big news.

Afraid

Show a cartoon of a scared child. Explain that fear keeps us safe.

Your Turn to Share!

Invite 3–4 volunteers quickly. Keep sharing under 1 minute each.

Lesson Plan

Heart of the Matter Outline

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Prepare Materials and Space

Step 1

Introduction

Step 2

Emotions Exploration

Step 3

Values Discovery

Step 4

Journal Activity

Step 5

Feelings Circle Reflection

Step 6

Wrap-Up

Slide Deck

Emotions Explorer

What Are Emotions?

Happy

Sad

Angry

Surprised

Afraid

Your Turn to Share!

Activity

Journal

Cool Down

What Makes Me Tick?

Hannah Venter