Lesson Plan

Words Matter: Embracing Diversity

Introduce 4th-grade students to the importance of using anti-racist language, helping them understand how words impact others and encouraging respectful, inclusive communication.

By learning how language can influence perceptions and feelings, students develop empathy and respect, building a more inclusive classroom community.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Review and Setup

5 minutes

Step 1

Warm-Up Activity

5 minutes

Step 2

Main Activity

15 minutes

Step 3

Discussion and Reflection

5 minutes

Step 4

Cool-Down

5 minutes

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Slide Deck

Words Matter: Embracing Diversity

Introduce the session. Emphasize the importance of respectful language and set a welcoming tone. Mention that today's focus is on how our words can impact others.

The Impact of Kind Words

This slide is used during the warm-up activity. Ask students to share personal experiences when kind words made a difference for them.

What is Anti-Racist Language?

Explain what anti-racist language means in simple terms. Use examples that are age-appropriate and invite questions.

Role-Playing for Respectful Communication

Describe the main activity details. Encourage students to work in pairs for role-playing. Highlight that it's a practice session to learn respectful communication.

Understanding Hurtful Language

Address the use of particularly hurtful language, including the N-word. Explain its historical context and why it is hurtful. Emphasize the importance of choosing words that respect everyone.

What Did We Learn?

Use this slide to regroup the discussion. Ask the students what they learned from their role-playing activity and highlight key insights.

Reflection and Cool-Down

Close the session by having each student share one new word or phrase they learned. Reiterate the importance of using anti-racist language in everyday life.

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Activity

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Discussion

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Activity

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Discussion

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Discussion

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Activity

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Lesson Plan

Words Matter: Embracing Diversity - Part 1

Introduce 4th-grade students to anti-racist language and its importance, setting a foundation for respectful communication.

Learning to use inclusive language builds empathy and fosters a respectful classroom community, essential for understanding diversity.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Review and Setup

3 minutes

Step 1

Warm-Up Activity

5 minutes

Step 2

Main Activity: Introduction to Anti-Racist Language

10 minutes

Step 3

Reflection and Wrap-Up

2 minutes

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Lesson Plan

Words Matter: Embracing Diversity - Part 2

Deepen student understanding of inclusive language through interactive activities and discussions, enhancing empathy and respectful communication.

Building on prior knowledge, this lesson empowers students to practice inclusive dialogue, reinforcing the importance of respectful communication and fostering a positive class environment.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Review and Prepare Materials

3 minutes

Step 1

Warm-Up and Recap

3 minutes

Step 2

Interactive Activity: Role-Playing & Group Scenario

10 minutes

Step 3

Post-It Reflection Activity

5 minutes

Step 4

Wrap-Up

2 minutes

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Words Matter: Embracing Diversity

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jbreneisen

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