Gossip and Rumors

I am currently visiting all of the 5th grade classrooms, and our topic is Gossip.  By upper elementary, the students really begin to notice things that are different about each other.  If a kid dresses differently or acts differently, that can turn into kids gossiping about that student.  Gossiping can be very hurtful, so we are reading a book entitled Trouble Talk that addresses this topic. 

During the lesson, students learn that before they spread a rumor, they should ask themselves three questions:

1.  Is it True? 

2. Is it something Good?

3. Is it Useful information?

If students are unable to answer "yes" to all 3 of these questions, then they should not share the information with others. 

Students were left with these thoughts on Kindness towards others:

Kindness sometimes means NOT doing something.

Not making that comment.

Not noticing that flaw.

Not assuming the worst about someone else.