Lesson Plan

Words Matter Lesson Plan

Students will understand how their word choices, including lyrics, can impact others and will practice expressing themselves respectfully by analyzing scenarios and reflecting on appropriate language.

This lesson fosters empathy and responsible communication, helping students recognize the power of words and reduce instances of harmful language in their work. It builds a positive classroom culture and supports social-emotional development.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Gather and Review Materials

10 minutes

Step 1

Introduction

5 minutes

Step 2

Review Scenarios

10 minutes

Step 3

Reflect on Lyrics

10 minutes

Step 4

Create Personal Guidelines

3 minutes

Step 5

Wrap-Up

2 minutes

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Slide Deck

Words Matter

Welcome students and introduce the lesson. Explain that today’s focus is on how our words – especially in lyrics – can impact others. Tie it to real-life examples they know (songs, social media).

Lesson Objective

Read the objective aloud. Emphasize that this is about awareness and practice—no one is perfect, but everyone can improve.

Why Do Words Matter?

Pose the question and call on 2–3 volunteers. Capture key ideas on board (respect, feelings, clarity).

Classroom Communication Guidelines

Project or display the poster. Walk through each principle briefly. Ask students to paraphrase one guideline.

Scenario Analysis

Explain the scenario activity. Remind groups to use the poster as a reference. Circulate to listen and prompt.

Example Scenario

Read the example scenario aloud. Ask students what they notice. Guide them toward specific word changes.

Reflect on Lyrics

Introduce the reflection sheet. Show how to fill out the sections. Emphasize creativity and honesty.

Rewrite Your Lyrics

Give students time to work silently. Circulate to support rephrasing and ensure age-appropriate language.

Create Personal Guidelines

Distribute sticky notes. Prompt students to think of 1–2 personal rules. Collect them under the poster.

Wrap-Up

Select 3–4 student notes to read aloud. Reinforce how these guidelines help everyone. Preview how respectful language supports future projects.

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Worksheet

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Activity

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Reading

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Words Matter

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Erika Ruiz

Tier 1
For Schools
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