Grades 6-8

This module builds on students’ prior knowledge of constructive and destructive listening by challenging them to actively transform negative listening behaviors into positive ones. Through discussion, collaborative activities, and scenario analysis, students will deepen their understanding of how listening impacts communication and relationships. By reconstructing destructive listening situations, they will practice applying constructive listening techniques in real-life scenarios. This lesson reinforces the importance of active listening and encourages students to practice mindful communication strategies. Time Required: 25 – 30 minutes.

Objectives:

• Identify and differentiate between constructive and destructive listening.
• Analyze listening behaviors in given scenarios.
• Reconstruct destructive listening situations into constructive interactions.
• Reflect on how active listening affects communication and relationships.

Sound check, sound check! Get your students listening in with the “Hear Me Out!” module, where they will listen and learn about how constructive—or active—listening. Students will see how active listening can affect them (and others!) in different places, and why it is important to the development of relationships. Our friends in Grades 6-8 will then become super sleuths and find out who the “Secret Listener” is our Secret Listening Activity! But whoever it may be—students will become active listeners to the very last word! Time Required: 30-45 minutes.

Objectives:

• Understand what constructive listening is and how it affects relationships.
• Recognize constructive listening behaviors.
• Practice constructive listening skills to improve communication with peers and adults.

The Tune In, Don’t Tune Out module introduces students to destructive listening and its impact on communication. This lesson helps students recognize poor listening habits, develop strategies for active listening, and strengthen their interpersonal relationships. Through guided discussions, reflections, and interactive activities, students will learn how to clarify misunderstandings and become more engaged listeners. By engaging in self-reflection and collaborative activities, students will develop practical skills to enhance communication in both academic and personal settings. Time Required: 30-40 minutes.

Objectives:

• Identify and define destructive listening.
• Recognize how body language and attentiveness influence communication.
• Apply active listening strategies to improve conversations.
• Reflect on personal listening habits and commit to improving them.