Teacher Script

Lesson: Next Stop Fifth Grade

Introduction 2 Minutes

“Good morning, friends! Today we’re going to talk about finishing 4th grade and getting ready for 5th grade. We all have different feelings about this, and that’s okay. Our goal today is to share how we feel, learn from each other, and remember that all feelings are normal. Let’s start by creating a safe space where everyone can be heard.”

1. Safe-Space Norms 5 Minutes

“Please pull your chairs into a circle so we can see each other. To make sure everyone feels safe and respected, let’s decide together on a few norms. What rule should we have so we listen well when someone else is talking?”

Action: Wait for student suggestions; write on chart paper.

“Great ideas! Here’s what we have so far: 1. We listen without interrupting. 2. We respect each other. 3. We keep what’s shared here private. 4. We share kindly and without judgment. Does anyone want to add another norm? ... Perfect. These norms will help us feel safe sharing our feelings.”

2. Mood Meter Reflection 5 Minutes

“Now I’m handing out a Mood Meter Chart to each of you. Look at the four colored zones: yellow, red, green, and blue. Think about how you feel right now, and circle the spot that fits best. Take about one minute to do that quietly.”

Action: Distribute charts and give students time.

“Okay, who circled the yellow zone? Can you share one or two words about why you chose yellow? ... Who circled the blue zone? Would you like to tell us why you picked that? ... Thank you all. Remember, it’s okay to feel any of these ways today.”

3. Slides & Pair Share 8 Minutes

Slide: What Excites You About 5th Grade?

“Let’s look at our first slide: What are you most excited about in 5th grade? First, I’ll invite a couple of volunteers to share with the whole class. Who would like to go first? ... Now turn to a partner. Take two minutes each to share one thing you’re excited about. Remember to listen closely and ask a quick follow-up question like ‘Why that?’”

Slide: What Makes You Nervous?

“Here’s our next slide: What worries you about moving to 5th grade? We’ll follow the same process. I’ll invite a couple of volunteers. Who wants to start? ... Now find a different partner and spend two minutes each sharing a worry you have. After your partner shares, ask ‘How might you feel better about that?’”

4. Independent Reflection 7 Minutes

“Great work, everyone. Now I’m passing out the Feelings Reflection Worksheet. On this sheet you have three sections: Feelings about leaving 4th grade, things you’re excited about, and worries and ways to cope. Take about five minutes to write or draw your thoughts. There are no right or wrong answers—this is just for you.”

5. Debrief & Closing 5 Minutes

“Let’s finish by sharing a bit from our worksheets. Who would like to read one sentence or show one drawing that feels important to them? ... You all did an amazing job. Remember, it’s normal to feel excited, nervous, or even a little sad when big changes happen. If you ever want to talk more, you can always come to me or our counselor.”

Next Stop Teacher Script Script

Next Stop Teacher Script Script

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