Perspective-Taking
GRADES K-2

Locked Content

Unlock this lesson plan by becoming a paid member. Existing members, please log in.

Learning Goal

Students will learn the meaning and value of taking another’s perspective.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the lessons, students will be able to:

  • Identify what it means to take another person’s perspective
  • Practice perspective-taking with a partner
Learning Summary

Perspective-taking is the ability to understand another’s thoughts, feelings, and point of view. The skill of perspective-taking is a critical tool in building social awareness.

In the mindful moment, students focus on their breath as they trace a sideways 8. You then present the class with a short scenario showing different perspectives then introduce students to the idea of perspective (or, in other words, different point’s of view). The Munchy and Jumpy story then tells the tale of when Munchy and Jumpy planned a surprise obstacle course for their friend, Toby the Turtle. In the double-day, they take Toby’s perspective and realize the game is great for rabbits but not for turtles. You then show the students various photographs of different places. Students look at each photo and answer discussion questions building the foundation that we each have our own perspectives. Students end by drawing in their journals.

computer icon Online Teaching Tips for Perspective-Taking

This lesson does not require any major modifications for online learning. As always, after the Mindful Moment and introduction, use the Muchy and Jumpy story as the entrance point into the topic of perspective-taking.

Utilize the pictures for the In My Perspective activity found in the slide decks, making sure to provide students wait time to reflect and respond through the microphone. To extend the lesson, the Perspective-Taking Pictures additional activity also requires little modification using the slides.

Utilize the pictures for the In My Perspective activity found in the slide decks making sure to provide students wait time to reflect on their own. Skip the discussion questions and either add in the Perspective-Taking Picture additional activity or go right to the journal.

CASEL Competencies

Social awareness: The abilities to understand the perspectives of and empathize with others, including those from diverse backgrounds, cultures, & contexts. This includes the capacities to feel compassion for others, understand broader historical and social norms for behavior in different settings, and recognize family, school, and community resources and supports.