Word Power Story
Word Power Story
A story about using our best words!
I have Word Power! Every day, I use my mouth to talk to my friends, my teacher, and my family. My words are like tools that help me share my ideas.
When I use kind and school-appropriate words, people feel happy and safe around me. It helps me make friends and learn new things!
Sometimes, I might want to use "potty talk," mean words, or words that are too loud. These words can make people feel sad, confused, or uncomfortable.
Green Light Words
"Please," "Thank you," "Can I play?" "I need help."
Stop & Think Words
Mean names, bathroom words at lunch, or shouting "No!"
Before I speak, I can take a Deep Breath. I ask myself: "Are these words helpful? Are these words kind?"
If I make a mistake and use a word that isn't okay, that's alright! I can say "I'm sorry," and try again with a better word choice.
I am a Word Hero! I use my words to build people up and make my classroom a great place to be.
My Word Hero Checklist:
- Is it the right time for this word?
- Is it kind to my friends?
- Am I using my "school voice"?
Word Power Reflection
Word Power Reflection
Think about your choices and be a Word Hero!
NAME:
DATE:
1 Which words show Word Power?
Color the bubbles with kind, school-appropriate words in GREEN. Color the unkind or "silly" words in RED.
"Thank you!"
"Poopy-head"
"Good job!"
"Shut up!"
"Can I help?"
"I am mad!"
2 Word Hero Picture
Draw a picture of you using kind words with a friend or a teacher.
3 Finish the Sentence
When I use kind words, my friends feel .
One kind word I can use today is .
Word Power Guide
Teacher Guide
Topic: Word Power & Appropriate Language
Learning Objective
Students will identify the difference between "school-appropriate" language and "potty/unkind" talk, understanding that their words impact the feelings of others and the classroom environment.
How to Use the Story
- Read Aloud: Read the story with enthusiasm. Use different voices for the "Word Hero."
- Pause & Predict: Stop at the "Stop & Think" section and ask students why they think those words make people uncomfortable.
- Physical Anchors: Have students take a "Word Power Breath" together when mentioned in the story.
Discussion Prompts
- "How does your heart feel when a friend says something mean?"
- "Why are some words okay at home but not okay in the classroom?"
- "What can we do if we hear a friend using silly 'potty talk'?"
In-the-Moment Strategies
The "Oops" Strategy
When a student slips up, prompt them: "That sounds like a silly choice word. Can you try that again with Word Power?"
Visual Cues
Use a hand signal (like a 'stop' sign or a finger to the chin) to remind students to 'Think Before You Speak'.
For 1st Graders...
At this age, "potty talk" is often for attention or reaction. Neutralize the reaction. Focus on the social impact rather than the "badness" of the word itself.
Extension Activity
Create a "Word Hero Jar." Every time the class hears someone using exceptionally kind or helpful language, add a marble. Celebrate when the jar is full!
