Activity Type: Class Pledge Writing and Signing

Duration: One class session, with monthly readings to follow

Class Size: Whole class

Learning Objectives

• Write positive phrases about respectful interaction.
• Work together to form a class pledge from everyone’s ideas.
• Commit to the pledge by signing it and revisiting it each month.

Materials Needed

• Separate pieces of paper for each student
• A box to collect the phrases
• The worksheet via the WorkSheet button below

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Write positive phrases. Students individually write positive phrases about respectful interaction on separate pieces of paper.
2. Form the class pledge. These are collected in a box, then read aloud and collaboratively arranged to form a class pledge. Say: “Let’s read these aloud and put them together into our class pledge.”
3. Sign the pledge. After the pledge is finalized, all students sign it.
4. Keep it alive. Monthly readings and discussions reinforce its importance.

Discussion Questions

• Which phrases about respectful interaction matter most to our class?
• What does it mean to keep a pledge we all signed?
• How can our monthly readings help us live up to the pledge?

Assessment

Check that every student wrote a phrase, that the class pledge was formed and signed by all students, and that monthly readings are planned. Ask students to name one promise from the pledge they will keep this week.