A raised eyebrow, a tight smile, or wide eyes can say more than words ever could. In this lesson, students will explore how facial expressions communicate emotions, sometimes clearly, and other times with nuance.
Through a compelling story and guided activities, students will build skills in facial recognition and emotional interpretation, learning how to read both obvious and subtle cues in others. They'll also reflect on the importance of context and body language in helping them make sense of emotional signals.
Lesson Components Include:
Complete lesson plan with learning objectives and step-by-step guidance
Teacher presentation slides for direct instruction
Student workbook pages for guided and independent practice (printable or digital)
A companion story featuring relatable characters and comprehension/reflective discussion questions (printable or digital)
A google form exit ticket to assess understanding
This lesson is ideal for use during morning meetings, SEL blocks, small groups, or counseling sessions and helps students better understand how they manage unexpected events, big or small.
This lesson strengthens students’ empathy and social awareness, equipping them with practical tools for navigating friendships, group work, and everyday interactions with clarity and kindness.
Grade Level: Middle School
