Definition:

Showing respect means to use words and actions that show we care about all people and things. 

In short:

Value others, honor differences.

Summary:
Mean Jean is a bully who picks on classmates during recess. She is challenged by Katy Sue, a tiny new kid who’s unafraid of Mean Jean because she’s not familiar with the situation. When confronted by Mean Jean, Katy Sue talks back and refuses to do what the bully demands.  Clever Katy Sue invites her adversary to jump rope with her, and it isn’t long before they become good friends. 

Lesson Objectives: 

1. Students gain awareness about bullying behavior and some tips on what to do to address it. 
2. Teachers guide students in a discussion about bullying, why it’s wrong, and how to handle it. Note: Sometimes it’s hard for adults to know when someone is being bullied, so it’s important to set up a way for children to report it privately so adults can get involved if needed. 

Guiding Questions: 

1. What are some of the ways Mean Jean treated other kids on the playground? 
2. Why do you think none of the children tried to challenge Mean Jean? 
3. Do you think the children should have talked to their parents or the teacher about Mean Jean? Why or why not? 
4. The story doesn’t explain why Mean Jean was such a bully, but why do you think she was so mean? 
5. Katy Sue wasn’t afraid of Mean Jean at all. What did she do that showed she wasn’t going to do what the bully said? 
6. Do you think Katy Sue was a courageous person? Why or why not? 
7.   How did Katy Sue get Mean Jean to play with her? Did it work? 
8. Have you ever been bullied or watched someone being bullied? What happened? 
9. Have you ever bullied anyone? Why, and what happened? 
10. Do you think the kids in this story had a better experience on the playground after Jean changed her behavior? Why?