Emotional Literacy Adventure: Understanding Emotions
Emotional Literacy: Understanding Emotions
Lesson duration is: 60 minItems in this lesson
Emotional Literacy: Understanding Emotions
What do you already know about emotions?
Learning Objective
At the end of the lesson you will be able to recognise and name different emotions, identify what triggers them, and reflect on your feelings.
Starter: Emoji Check-In
Choose an emoji that matches how you feel right now. Share with your partner—no explanations needed!
Why Learn About Emotions?
Understanding emotions helps us build better relationships, make good choices, and manage difficult situations.
What Are Emotions?
Emotions are feelings like happiness, anger, sadness, or excitement. Everyone has emotions, and they guide our behaviour.
The Emotion Wheel
Look at the wheel. How many emotions can you name? Can you think of more?
Naming Emotions
Happy, excited, calm, loved, proud.
Negative Emotions
Sad, angry, worried, scared, lonely.
Positive Emotions
Group Activity: Acting Out Emotions
In groups, act out one emotion without using words! Others will guess which emotion it is.
What Triggers Emotions?
Situations can trigger emotions. Example: winning a game = happy; forgetting homework = worried.
Identifying Triggers
Think of a recent moment you felt a strong emotion. What happened before you felt it?
Scenario Cards: What Would You Feel?
In pairs, read your card and share the emotion you'd feel. How might someone else feel differently?
Personal Reflection: My Triggers
Write down three things that make you feel happy, and three that make you feel worried or upset.
Discussion: Emotions Are Unique
We don't all feel the same way about the same things. It's okay to feel differently!
Recognising Emotions in Others
Why It Matters
Look for Clues
Knowing how others feel helps us be kind and supportive.
Facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice are clues to how others feel.
Quiz: Name That Emotion
Look at the picture. Can you guess the emotion? Shout out your answers!
Supporting Friends
If you think a friend feels sad or angry, check how they are and listen if they want to talk.
Journaling: My Feelings Today
Write a few words or draw a picture showing how you feel right now.
Plenary: Emoji Exit Poll
Choose an emoji to show how you feel at the end of today's session. Place it on the mood board!
Reflection
What is one new thing you have learned about emotions today? Be ready to share with the class.
Next Steps: Exploring More Emotions
Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.
Write down 2 things you want to know more about.
Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.
