Lesson Plans Grades 8-12 – ‘We See You’: A Sawubona Circle of Appreciation | Morningside Center for Teaching Social Responsibility
For Grades 8-12
The “We See You: A Sawubona Circle of Appreciation” lesson plan is designed to help students build a sense of community and appreciation within the classroom. The lesson begins with an introduction to the concept of Sawubona, which is a Zulu greeting that means “I see you and you matter.” Students are then invited to participate in a “circle of appreciation,” in which they take turns acknowledging and appreciating their classmates. This can involve sharing compliments, expressing gratitude, or recognizing the unique qualities that make each individual special. The lesson also includes a guided meditation and reflection activity to help students connect with their own sense of self-worth and recognize the value of others in their lives. By the end of the lesson, students should have a deeper understanding of the importance of appreciation, respect, and community in their daily lives. The lesson plan can be adapted for different age groups and can be used as a standalone activity or as part of a broader curriculum on social and emotional learning.
Journal Prompts
- How can you use the Sawubona Circle activity to promote a growth mindset and resilience among your students? What strategies can you use to help students recognize and appreciate their own strengths and abilities?
- How can you use the Sawubona Circle activity to address issues of equity and social justice in your classroom? What strategies can you use to help students recognize and challenge systemic biases and stereotypes?