Lock Arms for Life — Safe Storage Lesson Plan for Educators
Lock Arms for Life provides educators with a ready-to-use lesson plan packet designed for Grade 5, easily modified for any grade level, to help students understand safe firearm storage, responsible decision-making, and what to do if they encounter an unsecured firearm. This lesson is aligned with TEKS §115.17 (Health Education, Grade 5), and complements Texas Education Code §37.222 (HB 3) by reinforcing safe firearm storage education for students and families.
Complete Educator Packet
Download the full 50-page educator packet, including the graphic novel, lesson guide, order form, and Get ACTIVE pledge and steps handout.
Individual Resources
Need only one item or want to order physical copies? Download our order form or individual documents below without printing the complete packet.
Lesson Title: “Save the Day, Lock It Away” — Understanding Firearm Safety and Safe Choices
TEKS Alignment
This lesson plan is aligned with §115.17 (Health Education, Grade 5), easily modified for any grade level, and Texas Education Code §37.222 (HB 3)
Lesson Objectives
- Understand the importance of safe firearm storage and responsible behavior
- Identify actions to take when encountering an unsecured firearm
- Recognize how individual choices affect safety in the home and community
- Practice communicating concerns about safety with adults and peers
Materials Needed
- Educator Lesson Guide
- Save the Day, Lock It Away graphic novel (one per student or group)
- Printable Lock Arms for Life "Steps to Get ACTIVE" and "Get ACTIVE Pledge"
- Whiteboard or chart paper
Lesson Procedure
1. Request or Download Materials:
Lock Arms for Life offers free graphic novels and an accompanying lesson plan for educators. Teachers, librarians, and school partners may request physical classroom copies by completing our Graphic Novel Order Form above or under Downloadable Resources. A printable PDF version of the graphic novel is also available.
2. Review the Lesson Plan:
Review the objectives, Graphic Novel, TEKS alignment and Get ACTIVE principles before beginning.
3. Read Aloud & Guided Discussion:
Read the graphic novel with students and pause to discuss safe choices, trusted adults, and what to do if a student sees an unsecured firearm. Once complete, review Get ACTIVE principles and safety checklist.
4. Reflect & Take Action:
Take the Get ACTIVE Pledge as a class! Students may write or draw what they learned, role-play a safety scenario, or create a class Safety Pledge.
Key Takeaways: Get ACTIVE Principles
Always secure guns in homes and cars; cultivate responsible behavior; take steps to reduce harm; Inquire about unsecured guns in others’ homes; voice your concerns about gun safety; educate your peers about getting active. Safe storage: unloaded, locked securely and out of reach. Don’t touch/look at a gun without an adult. Always treat a gun like it is loaded; point guns in a safe direction; NEVER point a gun at anyone including yourself.
Extension Options
- Invite a school resource officer or counselor to discuss safety planning.
- Connect with parents/caregivers through a follow-up newsletter or family discussion guide.
