Teasing Lesson Plan Facilitator Guide Teasing: Friend or Foe?
Lesson Facilitation Guide
7th Grade
Duration: 30 Minutes
Core Objective
Students will differentiate playful teasing from hurtful bullying, build empathy by analyzing real-life scenarios, and practice respectful response strategies.
The "Why"
Understanding the line between friendly teasing and harmful bullying helps students foster supportive peer relationships, reduce conflicts, and create a positive classroom climate.
Prep Checklist
Review presentation slides
Print Scenarios Handout (1 per pair)
Display Chart Poster
Arrange seating for pairs
Lesson Roadmap
5m
Introduction & Hook
• Project the first two slides of the presentation.
• Prompt: "What comes to mind when you hear the word ‘teasing’?"
Playful: Friendly jokes that make people laugh without harm.
Hurtful: Comments or jokes that embarrass, shame, or upset others.
10m
Scenario Analysis (Pairs)
• Distribute the Teasing Scenarios Handout .
• Pairs read 4 scenarios and classify them as Playful or Hurtful .
• Students must write one sentence explaining their choice.
Teacher Note: Circulate and ask students to consider the recipient's perspective versus the speaker's intent.
8m
Whole Group Deep-Dive
• Gather class around the Playful vs Hurtful Chart Poster .
• Facilitate a discussion on the classifications. Use the "Features" (Tone, Intent, Relationship) as anchors.
• Key Questions: What clues helped you decide? How might the recipient feel?
5m
Reflection & Role-Play
• Invite volunteers to role-play responses to hurtful teasing.
• Practice Assertive "I" Statements and asking the teaser to stop.
• Discuss the importance of body language and tone in being taken seriously.
2m
Wrap Up & Exit Ticket
• Students complete the Exit Ticket : One action they will take when witnessing hurtful teasing.
• Collect as they leave the room.
Required Materials
• Teasing Presentation Slides
• Teasing Scenarios Handout
• Playful vs Hurtful Teasing Chart Poster
© 2026 Social-Emotional Learning Toolkit
Teasing Presentation Slides 7th Grade SEL
Teasing:
Friend or Foe?
Understanding Playful vs. Hurtful Teasing
Building Respectful Classrooms
Let’s Talk Teasing
"What words or images pop into your head when you hear the word ‘teasing’?"
"How does teasing usually make people feel?"
The Difference
Playful
Friendly jokes meant for fun
Everyone involved laughs/enjoys it
Strengthens the friendship
Hurtful
Comments that embarrass or shame
One person feels upset or left out
Damages trust and connection
Case Study #1
"I think you’re starting a new fashion trend!"
Alex notices Jamie’s socks don’t match and makes the joke. Jamie laughs and shows off the socks.
Is this Playful or Hurtful? Why?
Case Study #2
"You’re weird—why would anyone draw that?"
Taylor sees Jordan’s drawing and says this loudly in front of others. Jordan looks hurt and walks away.
Where was the line crossed?
Take Control: How to Respond
Assertive "I"
"I don’t like being called that."
Set a Boundary
"Please stop—that actually hurts."
Seek Support
Talk to a teacher or trusted adult if it continues.
Your Action Plan
Write down ONE specific action you will take the next time you witness hurtful teasing.
Speak Up Support the Target Tell an Adult
Teasing Scenarios Handout Friend or Foe?
Teasing Scenarios Handout
Student Name
Date
Read each scenario below. Decide if the teasing is Playful or Hurtful , then explain your reasoning based on the speaker's intent and the recipient's reaction.
1
The Fashion Trend
Alex notices Jamie’s socks don’t match and jokes: “I think you’re starting a new fashion trend!” Jamie laughs and shows off the socks.
1. Classification
Playful
Hurtful
2. Reasoning (Why?)
2
The Drawing
Taylor sees Jordan’s drawing and says loudly in front of others: “You’re weird—why would anyone draw that?” Jordan looks hurt and walks away.
1. Classification
Playful
Hurtful
2. Reasoning (Why?)
3
The Gym Chase
During gym class, Kim taps Lily on the shoulder and calls out: “Bet you can’t catch me!” Lily grins and chases after Kim, laughing.
1. Classification
Playful
Hurtful
2. Reasoning (Why?)
4
The Group Chat
Sam posts a photo of Jordan tripping in the hallway on the class group chat with the caption: “Graceful as always, right?” Jordan feels embarrassed and avoids speaking for the rest of the day.
1. Classification
Playful
Hurtful
2. Reasoning (Why?)
Playful vs Hurtful Teasing Chart Poster Playful vs. Hurtful Teasing
How to spot the difference and keep it respectful.
Feature Playful Teasing Hurtful Teasing Intent Friendly, to make others laugh To embarrass, shame, or belittle Recipient Reaction Smiles or laughs, feels included Feels upset, embarrassed, or hurt Tone Light-hearted, kind Harsh, mocking, or cruel Relationship Based on mutual trust and friendship Targets weaknesses, often one-sided Empathy Speaker notices and respects feelings Ignores or dismisses recipient feelings Example “Nice socks! I love your style!” “Wow, are you too lazy to match your socks?”
Stay Playful
Only tease people you know well and stop immediately if they seem uncomfortable or stop laughing.
Avoid Hurtful
If it targets someone's identity, physical appearance, or insecurities, it's not a joke—it's hurtful.
Teasing Warm Up Handout Warm-Up Activity
Teasing: Friend or Foe?
Name
Take 3 minutes to reflect on your own experiences and thoughts before we begin today's discussion. There are no "wrong" answers here—just be honest!
1 What does the word "teasing" mean to you?
2 Give one example of each type of teasing:
Playful Teasing
Hurtful Teasing
Partner Share
When you finish, turn to a partner and share one of your examples. How are your examples similar or different?
Teasing Exit Ticket Handout Exit Ticket
Teasing: Friend or Foe?
Student Name
1. Describe one specific action you will take the next time you witness hurtful teasing.
2. Explain why you believe this action will help create a more positive classroom environment.
"Treat people with kindness."
