This 30-minute lesson empowers 6th-grade students to recognize and report abusive situations by identifying different types of abuse, selecting trusted adults, and learning safe reporting strategies.
TEACHER NOTES: Provide clear steps on *how* to report. Keep it simple and actionable. Discuss options for reporting if a trusted adult is unavailable or part of the problem.
Time for Scenario Cards!
Work in small groups.
Read each scenario carefully.
Discuss: Is it abuse? Steps to take? Who to tell?
Choose one scenario to share with the class.
TEACHER NOTES: Explain the activity and transition to group work.
You Are Not Alone!
Always remember your safety circle.
You have the right to feel safe.
Your voice matters!
TEACHER NOTES: Conclude the lesson by reinforcing the main message: students have the power to protect themselves and others by speaking up. Encourage them to complete the cool-down activity.
"These are hard things to hear about, but recognizing them is the first step in getting help. Remember, abuse isn't always a single event; it can be a pattern of behavior."
0:15 - 0:20
Who Are Your Trusted Adults?
Transition to Slide 4: Who Are Your Trusted Adults?
"So, if you or someone you know ever experiences something like this, who can you tell? This is where your trusted adults come in. A trusted adult is someone you feel safe talking to, someone who listens without judgment, and someone who will help you find solutions.
Look at the examples on the slide. Think about parents, teachers, counselors, or coaches. It's important to have a few people in mind because sometimes the first person you tell might not be able to help right away, or they might even be the person you need help from. Having options is key."
0:20 - 0:25
Why Speak Up & How to Get Help
Transition to Slides 5 & 6
"Why is it so important to speak up? I know it can feel scary. You might worry about getting someone in trouble, or that no one will believe you. But speaking up is crucial because it keeps you and others safe. It's one of the bravest things you can do.
If you need to report, follow these steps: 1. Tell a trusted adult immediately. 2. Be clear about what happened. 3. Keep telling different people until you get help. 4. In an emergency, call 911."
0:25 - 0:28
Group Activity: Scenarios
Transition to Slide 7
"Now, you're going to put this into practice. In your groups, read the cards. Discuss: Is it abuse? What steps should be taken? Who could they report it to? I'll be walking around to listen and answer any questions."
0:28 - 0:30
Wrap-up: Your Safety Circle
Transition to Slide 8
"To wrap up, complete the 'My Safety Circle' worksheet. Identify at least three trusted adults. Keep this list somewhere safe. Always remember, you have the right to feel safe, and your voice matters. Thank you for being so thoughtful today."
