Common Ground: Noticing Shared Experiences

Pre-Work: Setting the Tone (5 min)

• Set the frame that the class will be about preparing ourselves and one another to engage with difficult topics (5 min)
  • Explain to students: This activity is about noticing shared experiences. You will always have a choice about whether to participate.
  • Emphasize that the goal is not agreement, but awareness.
• Establish/review community agreements for dialogue and listening (10 min)

How It Works (2 minutes)

• Create a clear circle in the room.
• Explain to students: “I’ll read a statement. If it feels true for you, step into the circle. Feel free to discuss the prompt with others inside the circle. If the prompt does not feel true to you, stay where you are. You can change your mind at any time.”
• Remind students:
  • There is no right or wrong response
  • Silence is an okay part of the activity

Core Activity: Common Ground (15-20 minutes)

• Read a series of statements slowly, allowing time for movement and noticing.
  • Sample statements (adapt as needed):
    • “I’ve felt nervous starting something new.”
    • “I care a lot about how others see me.”
    • “I’ve felt misunderstood at school.”
    • “I’ve changed my mind about something important.”
    • Etc.
  • After each statement:
    • Pause for 5-10 seconds
    • Invite students to notice who is in the circle
    • Let students engage in conversation if they wish

Private Reflection (5-10 minutes)

• Once students return to their seats, invite them to reflect quietly.
• Choose one prompt (Students may write, draw, or simply think):

• What did you notice about yourself?
• What did you notice about the group?
• What surprised you (if anything)?

Optional Sharing (5-10 minutes)

• Invite voluntary sharing using low-pressure prompts:
  • “One thing I noticed…”
  • “Something that stood out to me…”
• Remind students:
  • Sharing is optional
  • Passing is always okay
• Avoid asking students to explain why they stepped in or out.

Reflection & Closing (5 minutes)

• Invite students to complete an exit reflection:
  • One thing that helps people feel like they belong is…
• Optionally ask:
  • One thing I can do to help build belonging is…
• Thank students for participating with respect and awareness.

Educator Support

• Facilitation Tips
  • Preview statements and remove any that may feel too personal for your group
  • Use neutral tone; avoid reacting to who steps in or out
  • Keep the pace steady; do not rush silence
• Differentiation
  • Allow students to participate by observing only
  • Replace movement with hand signals or seated gestures if needed
    
• Assessment
  • Exit reflections
  • Observation of respectful participation
    
• School Support
  • This activity is low-risk and typically does not require additional support
  • Follow up if students raise concerns