Lesson Plan

Words Matter Challenge

Students will identify judgmental comments, understand their impact, and practice replacing negative language with kind words through discussion, role-play, and a hands-on Kindness Garden.

Building empathy and positive communication helps create a respectful classroom culture, reduces hurtful language, and supports students’ social–emotional growth.

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Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Prepare Materials

10 minutes

Step 1

Warm-Up: Feelings Check-In

5 minutes

Step 2

Discussion: Judgmental vs. Kind Words

7 minutes

Step 3

Role-Play Practice

8 minutes

Step 4

Kindness Garden Activity

8 minutes

Step 5

Cool-Down: Reflection and Share

2 minutes

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Slide Deck

Words Matter Challenge

Welcome everyone! Introduce today’s lesson: Words Matter Challenge. Explain that we’ll learn how our words can hurt or help and practice choosing kind words every day.

Warm-Up: Feelings Check-In

Guide the Feelings Check-In. Read the two example comments, ask students how each makes them feel, and emphasize the power of words.

Judgmental vs. Kind Words

Define key terms. Ask for student input and write definitions on the board as they share.

Examples from Our Lives

Invite volunteers to share their own examples. Record two columns on the board.

Role-Play Practice

Explain the role-play steps. Model one scenario if needed, then let pairs practice.

Kindness Garden Activity

Show the template and demo writing kind words on petals. Encourage creativity.

Reflection Time

Hand out reflection sheets, read prompts aloud, and allow students time to write.

Closing & Takeaways

Summarize key takeaways: choose kind words, notice how you feel and how others feel, practice daily. Encourage students to display their Kindness Gardens.

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Worksheet

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Worksheet

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Worksheet

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Words Matter Challenge

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Kylie Taniguchi

Tier 1
For Schools
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