Family Structures

Topic: family structures

Objectives & Outcomes

• Students will be able to identify different types of family structures and understand the characteristics and roles of each member in the family.

Materials

• Images of different types of family structures (e.g. traditional, single parent, same-sex couple, blended family)
• Chart paper and markers
• Copies of the "What's a Family?" handout (provided below) for each student

Warm-up

• Start the lesson by showing a few images of different types of family structures and ask the students to explain what they see. Encourage them to use descriptive words to explain their observations.
• Next, ask the students to share what they know about family structures. Encourage them to share their personal experiences and observations.

Direct Instruction

• Use the images of different types of family structures to introduce the concept of family structures to the students. Explain that there are many different types of families and that each family has its own unique structure and set of rules.
• Next, ask the students to brainstorm a list of the different types of family structures they can think of. Encourage them to use descriptive words and include all of the different types they can think of.
• Review the list with the students and discuss the different types of family structures. Emphasize the importance of understanding and respecting the different types of families and their unique structures.

Guided Practice

• Have the students work in pairs or small groups to create a drawing or collage depicting a family structure they have discussed. Encourage them to use descriptive words and imagery to portray the different elements of the family structure they have chosen.
• Review the drawings and collages with the class and discuss the different elements of each family structure.

Independent Practice

• Have the students choose a family structure to research, either one they have discussed in the class or one they are unfamiliar with.
• Have the students write a short report on the chosen family structure, including information on the different members, their relationships, and any other details they have discovered. Encourage the students to use descriptive words and imagery in their report.

Closure

• Review the different family structures that were discussed in the class. Ask the students to share their thoughts on each structure and why they prefer or do not prefer it.
• Ask the students to share any new information they learned about family structures during their research.

Assessment

• Observe the students during the group and independent practice activities to assess their understanding of the different family structures and their ability to conduct research and present their findings.
• Evaluate the students' reports or presentations on their chosen family structure for their ability to understand and explain the structure and its characteristics.