Discussions about the meaning of Empathy and Tolerance

The Grade 4 students discussed empathy and tolerance today.

Thinking about these attitudes was a part of their homework last week.

We worked in small groups in the classroom and shared our understanding. We reflected on what we learned when discussing with parents and older siblings and came up with examples for each.

We then sat in a circle and helped all students in the class to understand. Otis gave an excellent explanation of the difference between sympathy and empathy and we all thought of our own example of a time we have felt empathy or tried to feel empathy for another person.

We also discussed how we can practice empathy. We can think of ways we can connect with others, their feeling and emotions. We may not have been in their exact situation but may still be able to think of a time we felt a similar emotion - ie were scared, frustrated or lonely.