Activity: Developing respect for those with disabilities by practicing lip reading

Materials needed:  the video; a few simple puzzles (10 - 20 pieces); two blindfolds for each pair of students; two bags on each table with various items that may be hard to identify through touch alone; several table stations that students can visit 

Directions: Explain: “You will have some experiences today that will help you understand what it’s like to have disabilities such as blindness and deafness.” Show the video and lead a discussion about what they learned from the video about people with disabilities and how to be supportive and respectful. Pair students and demonstrate the activities. 

• Puzzle table: students put on blindfolds and try to do the puzzles. 
• Bag of items table: students feel inside the bag and try to identify its contents
• Lip reading table: students face each other and they either make up words or are given a script and they take turns trying to read each other’s lips 

After all students have attempted these activities, regroup and ask them to talk about what they learned. 

Wrap it up: Explain: “When we do these activities, it helps us step into the shoes of those who are blind or deaf. We can empathize with their challenges and therefore show respect for the courage they show in dealing with their disabilities. We are motivated to get to know them and do whatever they need us to do that is helpful.”