Lesson Plan
Session 1 Lesson Plan
Introduce students to the Golden Rule through Laurie Keller’s “Do Unto Otters,” guide them in identifying kind vs. unkind behaviors, and have them practice sorting examples by demonstrating understanding of respectful actions.
Building a foundation for empathy and respectful behavior helps students form positive peer relationships and supports a safe, inclusive classroom community.
Audience
Time
Approach
Materials
Prep
Prepare Materials & Space
10 minutes
Step 1
Warm-Up & Introduction
5 minutes
Step 2
Read-Aloud
10 minutes
Step 3
Guided Discussion
7 minutes
Step 4
Behavior Sorting Activity
8 minutes
Discussion
Activity
Game
Lesson Plan
Session 2 Lesson Plan
Deepen students' application of the Golden Rule by exploring real-life kindness scenarios, practicing empathetic responses through guided discussion and role-play, and reinforcing learning with a kindness charades game.
Applying empathy in varied situations builds social problem-solving, perspective-taking, and respectful communication—essential for a positive, inclusive classroom community.
Audience
Time
Approach
Materials
Prep
Prepare Materials & Space
10 minutes
Step 1
Warm-Up & Recap
5 minutes
Step 2
Guided Discussion
5 minutes
Step 3
Role-Play Activity
10 minutes
Step 4
Kindness Charades Game
7 minutes
Step 5
Reflection & Closing
3 minutes
Activity
Game
Lesson Plan
Session 3 Lesson Plan
Consolidate students’ understanding of the Golden Rule through reflection, peer teaching, and a “Kindness Passport” activity, empowering them to articulate and commit to kind behaviors.
Reflecting on learning and teaching others deepens empathy, builds confidence, and fosters ownership of respectful behavior—key for sustained social-emotional growth.
Audience
Time
Approach
Materials
Prep
Prepare Materials & Space
10 minutes
Step 1
Warm-Up & Reflection
5 minutes
Step 2
Peer Teaching Stations
12 minutes
Step 3
Kindness Passport Stamping
8 minutes
Step 4
Closing Circle & Celebration
5 minutes
Activity
Activity
Slide Deck
Otter Manners Quest – Session 1
Session 1 Objectives
Read-Aloud: Do Unto Otters
The Golden Rule
Guided Discussion
Behavior Sorting Activity
(Optional) Golden Rule Relay
Closing & Next Steps
Slide Deck
Otter Manners Quest – Session 2
Session 2 Objectives
Warm-Up & Recap
Guided Discussion
Role-Play Activity
Kindness Charades Game
Reflection & Closing
Closing & Next Steps
Slide Deck
Otter Manners Quest – Session 3
Session 3 Objectives
Warm-Up & Reflection
Peer Teaching Stations
Kindness Passport Stamping
Closing & Celebration
