Lesson Plan
Understanding Trauma: Building Empathy and Expectations
Students will explore trauma by defining what it is and isn’t, while learning how to apply trauma-informed practices alongside maintaining expectations.
Understanding trauma is essential for promoting empathy and resilience, enabling students to support each other and themselves in challenging situations.
Audience
Time
Approach
Materials
Prep
Teacher Preparation
10 Minutes
Step 1
Introduction and Context Setting
10 Minutes
Step 2
Video Viewing
5 Minutes
Step 3
Class Discussion
10 Minutes
Step 4
Group Activity
15 Minutes
Step 5
Wrap-Up and Reflection
5 Minutes
Slide Deck
Understanding Trauma
What is Trauma?
Trauma-Informed Practices
Balancing Empathy with Expectations
Discussion & Reflection
Wrap-Up
Real-Life Examples
Common Misconceptions
Strategies for Self-Care
Applying What We've Learned
Impact of Trauma on School
Worksheet
Activity
Reading
