Learn to Speak Up

This worksheet is designed for students in Grades 3, 4, and 5 to develop assertive communication, emotional awareness, and clear self-expression through the use of “I” statements. By learning a simple, effective formula and applying it to realistic social situations, learners practice expressing feelings and needs respectfully-without blame, defensiveness, or aggression.

Learning Goals

• Assertive Communication & Self-Expression (Grades 3-5) – Use “I” statements to express thoughts and feelings clearly and respectfully.
• Conflict Resolution Skills – Respond constructively to common social challenges such as interruptions, exclusion, or feedback.
• Writing for Clarity & Tone – Craft sentences that communicate emotions while maintaining a calm, respectful tone.
• Social-Emotional Problem Solving – Apply communication strategies thoughtfully in real-life scenarios.

Instructional Benefits

• Teacher-Created Resource – Designed by educators to align with elementary SEL, health, and ELA standards.
• Explicit Strategy Instruction – Teaches a clear, repeatable formula students can use beyond the worksheet.
• Realistic Scenarios – Helps students transfer skills to everyday peer interactions.
• Confidence Building – Empowers students to speak up for themselves in a positive, respectful way.
• Flexible Use – Ideal for counseling lessons, morning meetings, small groups, or independent practice.
• Low-Prep Design – Easy to print and use in classroom or homeschool settings.

This printable worksheet helps students build lifelong communication skills by practicing how to express feelings and needs assertively and empathetically. Through guided practice with “I” statements, learners strengthen emotional regulation, empathy, and clarity in communication. Whether used in a classroom, counseling session, or homeschool environment, this activity supports healthy relationships and confident self-advocacy.

This worksheet is part of our Assertiveness vs. Aggression vs. Passivity collection.