How We View Others

SEL Domain(s): Empathy

Relational Risk: Medium

Grades: 4-8

*Lesson may need to be modified to meet the specific needs of students

Description:

Students explore their perceptions of others and themselves through guided reflection using game-based prompts to build empathy and self-awareness.

Materials

• IMAGINiff game cards (or similar prompt cards with six descriptive options)

• Paper

• Pens or pencils

• Lesson script

Steps

1. Distribute Materials:

   • Give each student a piece of paper and a pen/pencil.

2. Introduce the Activity:

   • Explain that students will be reflecting on how they view people in their lives in a non-judgmental way using creative prompts.

3. Select and Read Prompt Cards:

   • Choose a game card and read the scenario (e.g., “IMAGINiff your best friend were a musical instrument…”).

   • Announce who the card applies to (e.g., mom, coach, best friend).

4. Student Reflection:

   • Students pick one of the six answer options that best fits the person.

   • They write the prompt sentence, fill in the person's name, and record their choice.

5. Repeat:

   • Repeat for several people in their lives. Include at least one card where students describe themselves.

6. Group Sharing:

   • Invite volunteers to share a few of their responses.

   • Facilitate a whole-group debrief using reflection questions:

     • Do you usually see people positively or negatively?

     • Do past experiences shape your views of someone?

     • How do you view yourself?

     • Can we see both strengths and limitations in others?

7. Appreciations Circle:

   • Invite students to share one appreciation about someone in the group.

Variation:

Ask students to guess which option others would choose to describe them—fostering deeper peer insight and discussion.