LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Students will explain the challenges faced by unhoused teens, then identify ways to support people experiencing housing insecurity.

HEALTH ED STANDARDS

NHES 2: Analyze Influences that affect health and well-being of self and others.

CASEL COMPETENCY: Social Awareness

COMMON CORE ELA: RI.2: Determine the main idea and key details in a text.

KEY VOCAB

unhoused

neglect

domestic violence

shelter

Lesson Plan: Seeking Shelter

The number of unhoused teens in the U.S. is growing. Find out why—and what you can do to help.

PREPARE TO READ

Write the word unhoused on the board and ask students to define this term in their own words. Clarify that the term describes a situation, not an identity, and invites empathy. Discuss: What factors may cause someone to lose their housing? What can schools or communities do to help?

READ AND RESPOND

Have students read the article independently, recording key reasons some teens become unhoused as well as the barriers they face in education, health, or stability. Once students finish reading, show them the video “The Stories They Tell,” to hear formerly unhoused teens discuss their experiences. Then discuss the following questions:

  • Which programs or people in the article help make a difference
  • What emotions or perspectives stood out to you as a reader?

Use the comprehension quiz and critical-thinking questions to check for understanding.

EXTEND

Have students work in small groups to complete the extension activity, researching local organizations that support people experiencing housing insecurity and create a one-page Community Resource Guide. Display or share students’ guides with your school community to raise awareness.

Print the Lesson Plan

Text-to-Speech