Part of Lesson Plan: First Impression

Activity Overview / Details

Introduce the idea of first impressions.

Teacher:  "Let's talk about first impressions."  The minute you meet somebody, you make a first impression. Sometimes those first impressions last a long time.  A good first impression might get you a job.  A bad first impression might keep you from getting a job.

Decide in your head what first impression you got from me this morning?"

(Generate discussion about chef's whites.  Why are they worn? What do you think when you see somebody in this uniform?, etc... Why do you think chefs wear these pants?  These shoes?  Hair pulled back?  If you went into the back of a restaurant, what would you like to see the chef looking like?  Why do you think I wear this everyday? What do you guess I do with my day? Have I treated you with respect?  Would you hire me? Would you want me to be in your business?)

 "I made a first impression about YOU today, already!  When you walked in the door, I offered you a bowl of candy.  I didn't do this to be popular, I was carefully watching each and every one of you as you approached this door!  Each and every one of you made a first impression on me.  For instance, some of you came in the door and greeted me with a smile (continue with personalized examples)

(Give examples of student behavior without singling out a particular student - in the past, students have grabbed a handful of candy, walked by me without even saying good morning, said, "thank you!", smiled, thrown trash away, interrupted the powerpoint to get up , walk across the room and throw away the trash, made loud chewing noises on purpose, talked disrespectfully, etc...) 

Emphasize to students that the first day of school is nervewracking for everybody, even teachers, but they have total control over their first impression.  Have students generate a list of positive ways they can generate a good first impression.  Examples might be:  have a backpack, pencil and paper, say "good morning" to the teacher as you walk in. Be respectful by listening when the teacher is talking, stay on task, wear something clean and appropriate, etc...