Lesson Plan
Emotion Explorer Lesson Plan
Students will identify, label, and articulate a range of emotions in themselves and others, practice self-regulation strategies, and build empathy through guided discussions and hands-on activities.
Understanding and naming feelings supports emotional self-regulation, improves communication, and fosters empathy—key skills for social and academic success in upper elementary.
Audience
Time
Approach
Materials
Prep
Preparation
30 minutes
Step 1
Warm-Up & Introduction
10 minutes
Step 2
Emotion Brainstorm
10 minutes
Step 3
Emotion Matching Activity
15 minutes
Step 4
Self-Regulation Strategy Practice
10 minutes
Step 5
Reflection Journaling
10 minutes
Step 6
Closing Circle & Sharing
5 minutes

Slide Deck
Emotion Explorer: Discovering Feelings
What Is an Emotion?
Emotion Brainstorm
Categorizing Emotions
Emotion Intensity Thermometer
Calm-Down Strategies
Reflection Journaling
Closing Circle & Celebration
