Pri Values - Compassion & Empathy 3: Erkan

Teacher notes

This is the 3rd lesson in the Year of Values series, compassion and empathy unit. This session explores the story of Erkan in Turkey, whose daily act of compassion (feeding stray animals) challenges us to rethink how empathy can be expressed beyond human relationships. Students will consider how consistent, caring actions - especially toward those who may be ignored or overlooked, can build connection, community, and a sense of purpose. The lesson invites reflection on how empathy and compassion can be small, quiet, and deeply transformative. Guidance: This session can be delivered from the front of the class or on student devices (if available). The lesson invites students to reflect, share, and journal on the value of respect, not as a fixed definition, but as a living, evolving part of how they show up for others. No prior Lyfta experience is necessary. For new users, see the 20-min ‘Rob in Cornwall’ introduction lesson or 45-min ‘How to Use Lyfta’ overview (links below*). Like ALL Lyfta storyworlds, these characters are unique. We don't share stories as being 'typical' or as 'single stories' of people or places. Suggested introduction for each session in Year of Values: Each week, we explore a real human story from a different part of the world, helping us connect more deeply with the values that guide how we live and relate to others. In this unit, we’re focusing on compassion and empathy - not as abstract words, but as feelings and actions that shape our relationships and communities. Rather than defining them once and for all, we’ll explore how they show up in real people’s lives. Together, we’ll practise noticing what others are feeling, imagining how we might respond with care, and reflecting on what kind of difference small acts of understanding can make. Through conversation and curiosity, we’ll grow our capacity to listen, connect, and care. **National Curriculum Links** PSHE / RSHE (Statutory 2020) H2. About the elements of a balanced, healthy lifestyle. H16. About strategies and behaviours that support mental health and wellbeing (e.g., volunteering, being outdoors, caring for others). R10. To know how to show compassion and kindness, and how this impacts others. L3. About the importance of respecting and protecting the environment. L6. About how resources can be allocated and the impact this can have on individuals and communities. L9. About stereotypes and how they can negatively influence behaviours and attitudes. Citizenship (KS2) - To consider what improves and harms their local, natural, and built environments. - To explore how people can take action to protect what they care about. - To recognise the role of voluntary, community and charitable organisations. - To develop skills to make a positive contribution to the community. English (KS2) - To participate in collaborative discussions, expressing viewpoints and listening to others. - To identify themes and messages in texts and films. - To retrieve, record, and summarise information from non-fiction. Science (KS2) – Animals including humans - To identify how animals’ needs are met, and how humans care for animals responsibly. - To understand the relationship between humans and other animals in their local environment.