Empathy Expression Tiles

Teacher Facilitation Guide

Target Audience

Grades 4-5

Time Frame

1-2 Class Periods

Approach

Art-Based Inquiry

Primary Goal

Deepen Empathy

Rationale

"This lesson encourages students to articulate emotions and perspectives, fostering empathy and building a supportive classroom community through tactile, creative expression."

Materials Needed

Pre-cut tiles or heavyweight cardstock squares (approx. 6"x6")
Markers, acrylic paints, brushes, and sponges
Protective table covers and water jars
Empathy Expression Tiles Slide Deck
Tile Planning Worksheet & Reflection Exit Ticket

Prep (15 mins)

1. Review lesson objectives and slide content.
2. Set up art stations with organized supplies.
3. Prepare a "demo" tile if possible to show visual symbolism.
4. Review vocabulary (perspective, compassion, resonance).

Instructional Steps

15

MINS

Introduction & Discussion

WHOLE GROUP

Define empathy as "feeling with" someone else. Use the Slide Deck to guide the conversation.
Discussion Questions: What does it feel like when someone really understands you? How do we show empathy without using words?
Connect emotions to visuals: "If kindness were a color, what would it be?"

45

MINS

The Art of Empathy (Creation)

INDIVIDUAL

Distribute the Tile Planning Worksheet. Students should sketch their ideas and choose colors first.
Encourage symbolism: A bridge for connection, a heart for feeling, cool colors for calm, warm colors for support.
Circulate the room. Ask students to describe their choices: "Tell me about why you chose this blue for your background."

20

MINS

Reflection & Sharing

GROUPS

Organize a "Gallery Walk" where students leave their tiles on their desks and move around to view others'.
Feedback Rules: Share one thing you notice and one thing that makes you feel a certain emotion.
Complete the Reflection Exit Ticket to wrap up the session.

Pro-Tip for Display

Consider mounting all student tiles together on a large poster board or wall as an "Empathy Mural." This reinforces the idea that individual empathy builds a stronger community whole.

Empathy Expression Tiles

Empathy Expression Tiles Lesson Plan

Empathy Expression Tiles Slide Deck

Empathy Expression Tiles Planning Worksheet

Empathy Expression Tiles Exit Ticket

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