Divide children into small groups of three or four. Give each group a large cup of glass stones containing assorted shapes, sizes and colors. Instruct students to sort the glass stones into piles. Indicate that they can select how they want to divide the stones. When the students are finished sorting the stones, let them share how they decided to sort them.
Provide students with four or five glass stones that have similar qualities. For example, give them stones that are all the same color. Tell students that people and objects can often have a common trait but still be different. Invite the students to number the stones using masking tape, and then try to identify unique characteristics of each stone. Students can create a chart identifying what they observed. For example, they might note that stone #1 is the smallest, stone #2 is the darkest, and so on.
Provide each student with a glass stone. If some of the stones are chipped or dirty, this can enhance the exercise. Divide the children into small groups and have them describe their individual stones to their group. Explain to the children that glass can be similar to people because it gets damaged when it is not cared for properly. A poem entitled "We Are Like Glass" on the Education World website reinforces the idea that people should respect and care for themselves and others. Recite the poem with the class. Extend the activity by letting children create their own poems about why respecting each other's differences is important.
Provide students with glass stones, and instruct them to stand in a circle. Stones should be different colors, shapes and sizes. Have students observe their stones and notice the characteristics. Indicate that you will call out characteristics of different stones. When a child has a stone with that characteristic, he can walk to the center of the circle to share one of his own unique qualities with the class. This will give students the opportunity to learn about each other and appreciate their own differences.