1. Lesson Prep & Preview
As students enter class, play the video/song “We Are the World.” (phase out after 3-4 min.)
Activity: Introduce (8-10 min.)
Purpose: Throughout our “We are Connected” activity, we will gain an understanding of how we are all connected through similar experiences, need to be supportive of one another, and treat others with respect.
Materials: a ball of yarn and a pair of scissors
Discussion: (4-5 min.)
4. Wrap-up: (3-5 min.)

3. Building Unity within Our AMS Community
We Are All Connected
Building Unity within Our AMS Community

4. Activity (8-10 min.)
Participants sit in a circle (on floor or on desks).
Facilitator start the activity with the ball of yarn.
Facilitator wraps the yarn around his/her wrist 2-3 times.
Facilitator states, “I was teased/excluded for _______________,” or “I saw someone teased/excluded when _________________.”
The ball of yarn is then tossed to someone across from the speaker in the circle.
This person wraps the yarn around his/her wrist 2-3 times and continues the process until all participants have shared.
Move on to the “Discussion” slide.

5. Discussion (4-5 min.) What does this show?
Discuss the following questions within the group.
What does our yarn creation look like?
What does this show?
How did you feel when you shared your example of when you were teased or excluded?
How did you feel when you heard other students tell their examples of being teased or excluded?
Have you ever teased someone? If you answered yes, why? At the time, did you consider how you were making that person feel?
How can you help someone who is being teased?
In the future, how can students stay connected?

6. Wrap-Up (2-3 min.)
Following the discussion questions, cut the yarn so everyone has their own bracelet.
As you wear the bracelet, remember we are all connected to each other.
Any last thoughts about the importance of connection?
“Even though sometimes we may feel isolated or alone, the web is a perfect reminder of the fact that we are all interconnected, and what we do affects those around us. We can reach out for support when we’re feeling down, or share when we’re feeling up. We can ask for help and offer help. What we think, say, and do DOES matter!”
Resource:
Colorado Success Unlimited Initiative
Adapted and Compile by Tim Birchard
Further adapted by AMS Student Champions