Building Self-Esteem in Middle School

Overview

Students in middle school are going through so many changes that many have low self-esteem. They depend more on their friends than their family. It's important for them to understand that they each have wonderful and unique qualities that make them special. This unit will help them withstand peer pressure and develop self-esteem and positive body image.

Objectives

Students will:

• Become aware of how their level of self-esteem affects their lives
• See the relationship between self-esteem and the kinds of choices they make
• Learn ways and how to set goals to enhance their self-esteem
• Become aware of the things that they and other people do that either enhances or undermines self-esteem
• See the relationship between body image and self-esteem

Culminating Activity

Students write one positive thing about a person in the class and share with someone else in the class. They can write why they like them, what is great about them, etc. The objective is to get students to share and express their feelings about their self-esteem and to build a class sense of community.

Supporting Books

• Stick Up for Yourself by Gerri Johnson, Gershen Kaufman, and Lev Raphael
• 101 Ways To Develop Student Self-Esteem and Responsibility by Jack Canfield and Frank Siccone
• Building Self-Esteem by Linda R. Zack
• The Skin I'm In by Sharon G. Flake
• The Girls' Guide to Life: Take Charge of Your Personal Life, Your School Time, Your Social Scene, and Much More! by Catherine Dee
• 104 Activities That Help Build Esteem, Teamwork, Communication, Discovery, and Coping Skills by Alanna E. Jones

Standards

National Health Standards

• Students will comprehend concepts related to health promotion and disease prevention.
• Students will demonstrate the ability to access valid health information and health promoting products and services.
• Students will demonstrate the ability to practice health enhancing behaviors and reduce health risks.
• Students will demonstrate the ability to use interpersonal communication skills to enhance health. 
• Students will demonstrate the ability to advocate for personal, family, and community health.