How talking helps

When we see a bullying situation playing out, it can be really hard to know what to do. Bystanders often worry that they may become the target of the behaviour if they stand up to it. This activity will explore some practical strategies for standing up to bullying behaviour in a safe and respectful way.

Year Level

7-10

Duration

5 minutes

Type

  • In class activity
  • Whole-school and year assemblies

SEL Competencies

  • Self-awareness
  • Self-management
  • Relationship skills

Learning Intention

Students will be able to explain the importance of seeking help after experiencing bullying.

Key Outcomes

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

  • identify a person in their life they can speak to about bullying behaviour
  • explain the importance of talking to someone if they or someone they know has been bullied.

activity 01

Instructions 5 min

  1. As a group, watch the ReachOut.com video clip 'How talking helps'.
  2. Ask the students to think about who they feel they could talk to about a bullying problem. Reflect on the following:
    • Who is this person, and why have you chosen them?
    • Who else could a young person talk to if they don’t feel ready to talk to friends or family?
  3. Ask the students to work with a partner and discuss:
    "Why do you think it is so helpful to talk to someone after you have experienced bullying?"

Debrief

It’s important, if you are being bullied, that you find someone you trust, such as a family member or a friend, to talk to. Don’t worry about being labelled a ‘complainer’ or as ‘weak’. It takes honesty and strength to talk about these things, and having this support makes the situation easier to deal with.

More information for students: