Students may not be thinking about the consequences of their actions at all times. This activity is a great opportunity for students to think, "consequence first". The students will create a chart that depicts both a refusal and a "give in" to the same pressure. The give in will show the negative consequences of their actions. The refusal will show the positive outcome of refusing to give into peer pressure. The refusal could be any kind discussed earlier in the previous activities.
The give in is when the victim falls for the peer pressure.
Lower Level: Use the first cell from the example storyboard, but leave the other cells blank and ask the students to continue the story.
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a chart storyboard that shows the consequences of an unsuccessful and successful refusal.
Choose examples that reflect students' daily experiences to help them connect with the topic on a personal level. Relatable situations encourage honest discussion and deeper understanding of peer pressure’s impact.
Assign students to groups and give them peer pressure scenarios to act out. Role-playing builds confidence and allows students to try different refusal techniques in a safe, supportive environment.
Ask students to share or journal their emotions after participating in or observing peer pressure activities. This reflection helps them recognize their responses and prepares them for real-life situations.
Discuss how peer pressure can happen online through group chats, social posts, or digital challenges. Highlight strategies for handling virtual peer pressure to make lessons relevant to students’ lives.
Recognize and share examples of students supporting each other in making good choices. Cultivating positive peer influence reinforces healthy behaviors and strengthens classroom community.
A peer pressure consequences chart is a visual tool where students map out both the negative outcomes of giving in to peer pressure and the positive outcomes of refusing it. Use it in class by having students create scenarios, label decisions, and discuss potential consequences to build critical thinking and decision-making skills.
You can teach refusal skills by using role-play, discussion, and storyboarding activities that let students practice saying no in realistic scenarios. Encourage them to identify pressures, brainstorm responses, and reflect on positive outcomes of refusal.
Positive consequences of refusing peer pressure include increased self-respect and trust from adults, while negative consequences of giving in can involve loss of trust, guilt, or disciplinary action. Discussing both helps students understand the impact of their choices.
An example lesson plan includes: introducing peer pressure, presenting a scenario, having students create a chart with 'give in' and 'refuse' decisions, and discussing the outcomes of each. This encourages students to think about consequence-first decision making.
For lower grades, provide partially completed charts and simpler scenarios. For higher grades, let students design their own situations or work in groups to analyze complex pressures. Adjust instructions based on students’ abilities and needs.