Signaling the Bench Lesson Plan Signaling the Bench
Lesson Plan: Social-Emotional Advocacy
Duration
30 Minutes
Learning Objective
Students will develop and demonstrate a discrete, non-verbal signal to request a break or assistance from a trusted adult to improve self-advocacy and emotional regulation.
Key Concepts
• Non-Verbal Communication
• Help-Seeking Behavior
• Self-Advocacy
• Replacement Behavior
Materials Needed
• Secret Signals Slides
• Signal Creation Guide (1 per student)
• Markers or pens
Instructional Arc
0:00 - 0:05
The Hockey Hook
Introduce the concept of non-verbal signals in professional sports (specifically hockey). Discuss how players and coaches communicate "line changes" or "time-outs" without shouting across the ice.
"In the heat of the game, pro athletes don't always have time to talk. They use 'signals' to get what they need from the bench. Today, you're the player, and I'm the coach."
0:05 - 0:15
Signal Strategy
Distribute the Signal Creation Guide . Students brainstorm a "Secret Signal" that is discrete (only the adult notices) but clear.
The signal must be doable from a desk.
It shouldn't draw peer attention.
Examples: Rotating a specific pen, adjusting a bracelet, a specific ear-touch.
0:15 - 0:25
Scrimmage (Practice)
The adult (teacher or social worker) circulates. Students "test" their signal. The adult must acknowledge the signal with a pre-arranged discrete "Roger that" (e.g., a simple nod).
Key Conversation:
"If you use this signal, I promise to respond within 60 seconds. I won't ask 'why' in front of the class. We just start the break protocol."
0:25 - 0:30
The Post-Game Wrap
Briefly review why this is a "Power Move." It’s not about giving up; it’s about managing your stamina so you can stay in the game longer.
Teacher/Facilitator Pro-Tips
Common Misconceptions
Students might think using a signal is "weak." Reframe it as "Elite Athlete Training." Pros use every tool available to stay at peak performance. This signal is a high-level communication tool for high-level students.
Differentiation
For students with motor difficulties, provide physical "anchor" objects (e.g., a specific colored card) they can flip. For highly anxious students, allow them to choose a "pre-signal" (a look) before the main signal.
Secret Signals Slides Game Strategy
Signaling
The Bench
Elite communication for high-performance students.
8th Grade Leadership Series
The Hockey Connection
In pro hockey, players use non-verbal signals to communicate with the bench.
Why signals?
The arena is too loud to talk.
Speed is essential.
The opponent shouldn't know the plan.
Referee Signals
Goal
Time-Out
Signals keep the game moving without stopping the clock.
Your Secret Weapon
Sometimes the classroom feels like a Power Play. You need a way to tell your "Coach" that you need a line change.
Line Change
I need a 2-minute break.
Assistance
I'm stuck on this play.
Stamina Check
I'm getting overwhelmed.
The "Discreet" Rule
What it ISN'T
Shouting "HELP!" across the room or waving your arms wildly.
What it IS
A small gesture that looks natural to anyone else, but means something specific to us.
"Only the Coach knows the call."
The Contract
OUR COMMITMENT TO THE PLAY
My Job (The Coach)
Scan the "ice" (the room) frequently.
Acknowledge your signal immediately.
Respect the "no questions" rule.
Your Job (The Player)
Keep the signal clear but quiet.
Use the signal BEFORE you're at 0% battery.
Trust the system.
Scrimmage Time
Grab your Signal Creation Guide .
Game On
Signal Creation Guide Worksheet Signal Creation Guide
Official Player Strategy Document
Player Name
Team Date
Your Secret Signal is a tool to advocate for yourself without needing to explain why to the whole class. It should be small, quick, and natural, but meaningful to you and your teacher/social worker.
1 Phase 1: Brainstorming Signals
Think of something you can do sitting down that won't distract others. Circle or write your ideas below.
Object Focus
Turning a pen a certain way, moving a water bottle to a specific corner.
Body Gesture
Touching your ear, crossing your arms a certain way, adjusting a sleeve.
Visual Anchor
Placing a specific sticker or colored card on the corner of your desk.
My Original Ideas:
2 Phase 2: The Final Play
The Secret Signal Description
What This Signal Means
Visual Sketch (Optional)
Draw signal here
The Player-Coach Contract
By signing below, the Player commits to using this signal for self-advocacy before reaching their limit. The Coach commits to checking for the signal and responding with a pre-arranged action (like a break or help) within 60 seconds of noticing it.
Player Signature
Coach (Teacher/Social Worker) Signature
