Communication Skills Lesson Plan for Kindergarteners

Learning Objectives:

• • Listen actively and speak using agreed-upon rules for discussion.
  • Express ideas in complete sentences and express needs through direct requests.
  • Initiate conversations.
  • Follow implicit rules for conversation, including taking turns and staying on topic.

• Listen and speak in informal conversations with peers and adults.
• Discuss various texts and topics collaboratively and with partners.
• Use voice level, phrasing, and intonation appropriate for various language situations.
• Follow one- and two-step directions.
• Ask how and why questions to seek help, get information, or clarify information.
• Work respectfully with others.

Materials:

• Picture books, puppets, props, music
• Activity mats, large paper, markers, crayons
• Puppets, dress-up items, playdough
• Simple board games, puzzles

Activities:

1. Morning Circle (10 minutes):

• Greeting Song: Start with a familiar greeting song or chant to focus attention and encourage participation.
• Active Listening Game: Play a “silent telephone” game where students whisper a message around the circle. Discuss the importance of attentive listening.
• Show and Tell: Provide opportunities for students to share experiences or objects with the class, prompting them to use complete sentences and answer questions.

2. Story Time (15 minutes):

• Interactive Reading: Read aloud a picture book related to communication skills, pausing to ask questions, encourage predictions, and make connections to their own experiences.
• Puppet Play: Use puppets to act out the story or create a new one together, focusing on turn-taking and staying on topic.
• Creative Response: After reading, invite students to draw, paint, or act out their favorite part of the story.

3. Playtime (20 minutes):

• Conversation Corner: Set up a designated area with props and dress-up items where students can engage in pretend play and practice initiating conversations.
• Collaborative Building: Divide students into pairs or small groups to build structures with blocks or playdough, encouraging communication and teamwork.
• Board Games: Play simple board games that require taking turns, following instructions, and communicating clearly.

4. Group Discussion (15 minutes):

• Picture Talk: Show a picture related to a social situation (e.g., sharing toys, waiting in line) and ask students to discuss what they see and what they think is happening.
• “How To…” Activity: Choose a social skill (e.g., asking for help) and brainstorm with students different ways to express themselves in that situation.
• Puppet Interviews: Use puppets to role-play different scenarios, providing opportunities for students to practice asking questions and responding politely.

5. Closing Circle (5 minutes):

• Review: Briefly discuss the skills practiced throughout the day and celebrate individual and group successes.
• Sing-along: End with a song related to friendship and cooperation.

Additional Tips:

• Model respectful communication throughout the day.
• Use positive reinforcement and encouragement.
• Provide opportunities for students to practice communication skills in different contexts.
• Be flexible and adaptable to the needs and interests of your students.
• This is just a sample lesson plan, feel free to adapt it to fit your specific curriculum and students’ needs.

By incorporating these activities and strategies into your daily routine, you can help your kindergarten students develop strong communication skills that will serve them well throughout their lives.