Lesson Plan
Bullies Vs. Brawls Unit Plan
A comprehensive 9-session Tier 1 SEL unit that helps 4th–6th graders distinguish bullying from normal disagreements, practice self-regulation and reporting steps, and build bystander skills through interactive activities and assessments.
Students often confuse rough play or disagreements with bullying. This unit provides clear criteria, builds coping and reporting strategies, and fosters a safer, more empathetic classroom community.
Audience
Time
Approach
Materials
Prep
Unit Prep
30 minutes
Step 1
Session 1: Bullying vs. Disagreement
20 min
Step 2
Session 2: Power Imbalance
20 min
Step 3
Session 3: Intent vs. Impact
20 min
Step 4
Session 4: Self-Regulation Strategies
20 min
Step 5
Session 5: How to Report Bullying
20 min
Step 6
Session 6: Seeking Adult Support
20 min
Step 7
Session 7: Bystander Intervention
20 min
Step 8
Session 8: Integrated Role-Plays
20 min
Step 9
Session 9: Culminating Project
20 min
Slide Deck
Session 1: Bullying vs. Disagreement
What Is Bullying?
What Is a Disagreement?
Comparing Bullying & Disagreements
Venn Diagram Activity
Session 2: Power Imbalance
Examples of Power in Bullying
Role-Play Instructions
Reflection Prompt
Session 3: Intent vs. Impact
Scenario Examples
Sorting Activity
Session 4: Self-Regulation Strategies
Calming Techniques
Build Your Plan
Session 5: How to Report Bullying
Reporting Flowchart
Quick Quiz
Session 6: Seeking Adult Support
Approaching Adults
Role-Play Tips
Session 7: Bystander Intervention
Bystander Ladder
Pledge Signing
Session 8: Integrated Role-Plays
Station Guidelines
Peer Feedback
Session 9: Culminating Project
Project Guidelines
Presentation & Rubric
