Assertiveness Training

This lesson series instructs students to communicate assertively instead of passively or aggressively. Assertive communication is built on a foundation of self-respect and respect for others. The lesson discussions and exercises equip students to acknowledge their interests, desires, and concerns; advocate for what is important to them; manage conflicts; establish boundaries; and decline requests.

The plan is based on the chapter “Approaches to Increasing Assertive Behavior and Communication Skills in Blind and Visually Impaired Persons,” within the book, The Development of Social Skills by Blind and Visually Impaired Students, by Sharon Zell Sacks with Linda Kekelis and Robert Gaylord-Ross.

Lesson 1: Recognizing Assertive Communication

Name(s) of student(s): Age and grade level: Goal from IEP connected to lesson: Objective from IEP connected to lesson: Purpose of lesson: To learn to recognize assertive, aggressive, and passive forms of communication Materials needed: Internet access, resources for a field trip Introduction Situations arise daily involving the opportunity to assert one’s concerns, rights, or […]

Graphic of individual leaning on a question mark

Lesson 2: Assessing Primary Communication Modes

Name(s) of student(s): Age and grade level: Goal from IEP connected to lesson: Objective from IEP connected to lesson: Purpose of lesson: To identify a student’s primary communication mode: passive, assertive, or aggressive Introduction “Last time we discussed the assertive communication style, which can be considered ‘speaking up’ for oneself respectfully and firmly. We contrasted […]

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Lesson 3: Self-Respect and Respect for Others

Name(s) of student(s): Age and grade level: Goal from IEP connected to lesson: Objective from IEP connected to lesson: Purpose of lesson: To develop self-respect and respect for others, the basis for assertive communication. Materials needed: A means for students to record answers Introduction “We have been learning about passive, assertive, and aggressive communication styles. […]

graphic of a head filled with various colors and patterns

Lesson 4: Recognizing Interests, Desires, and Concerns

Name(s) of student(s): Age and grade level: Goal from IEP connected to lesson: Objective from IEP connected to lesson: Purpose of lesson: To recognize when to be assertive Materials needed: Ice cream sundae bar Introduction “To be assertive, you must recognize your preferences and concerns. It is healthy to have likes, dislikes, and frustrations. If […]

Lesson 5: Voicing Interests, Desires, and Concerns

Name(s) of student(s): Age and grade level: Goal from IEP connected to lesson: Objective from IEP connected to lesson: Purpose of lesson: To learn about using “I” statements and honest, direct communication Introduction “We have discussed many scenarios involving the opportunity to choose an assertive communication style, and now we will learn how to voice […]

Graphic of individual holding head in frustration

Lesson 6: Managing Conflict

Name(s) of student(s): Age and grade level: Goal from IEP connected to lesson: Objective from IEP connected to lesson: Purpose of lesson: To introduce methods for assertively handling conflict. Introduction “Suppose you’ve addressed an issue or stated your preference and you are met with resistance. How can you assertively and respectfully handle conflict, confrontation, or […]

Lesson 7: Establishing Boundaries

Name(s) of student(s): Age and grade level: Goal from IEP connected to lesson: Objective from IEP connected to lesson: Purpose of lesson: Identifying the benefits, difficulties, and process of establishing healthy boundaries. Materials needed: Word document, internet access Introduction “Have you ever helped someone or given so much of yourself (time, talents, etc.) to the […]

Lesson 8: Learning to Say “No”

Name(s) of student(s): Age and grade level: Goal from IEP connected to lesson: Objective from IEP connected to lesson: Purpose of lesson: To recognize when to say “no”. Materials needed: Word document Introduction “Imagine you have a very busy week at school. In addition to four final exams, one group project, and two writing assignments, […]

Graphic of individual looking confidently in the mirror

Lesson 9: Exuding Confidence

Name(s) of student(s): Age and grade level: Goal from IEP connected to lesson: Objective from IEP connected to lesson: Purpose of lesson: To discuss and practice assertive body language Materials needed: Panel of sighted individuals, resources for a field trip Introduction “Which of the following three choices describe how you hope to be perceived: You […]

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Lesson 10: Developing Personal Goals

Name(s) of student(s): Age and grade level: Goal from IEP connected to lesson: Objective from IEP connected to lesson: Purpose of lesson: Self-reflection and developing assertiveness goals Materials needed: Word document Introduction “Today, we will reflect on your communication goals. When it comes to communicating assertively instead of passively or aggressively, I wonder what your […]