Lesson Plan
Why Do We Listen? Lesson Blueprint
Students will identify common listening barriers and practice active listening techniques through guided demonstrations and peer role-plays to strengthen their communication and relationship skills.
Active listening builds empathy, reduces conflicts, and enhances collaboration, equipping 8th graders with essential interpersonal skills aligned with CASEL’s relationship framework.
Audience
Time
Approach
Materials
Prep
Preparation
10 minutes
Step 1
Introduction
5 minutes
Step 2
Exploring Barriers
10 minutes
Step 3
Active Listening Demonstration
10 minutes
Step 4
Role-Play Practice
15 minutes
Step 5
Reflection and Exit Ticket
5 minutes
Slide Deck
Active Listening in Action
Why Do We Listen?
Common Listening Barriers
Benefits of Active Listening
Key Active Listening Strategies
Listening Lab Demonstration
Next Steps
Script
Activity
Cool Down
