Activity Overview
Unhealthy relationships do not start out that way at the beginning. If it did, we would recognize them and end the relationship before it got too far. The changes usualy begin during the "tension phase" in the cycle from a previous activity. Detecting red flags as soon as possible is essential for the victim's safety, and so it’s important to practice identifying potential indicators of abuse.
One safe way to do so is through creating storyboard examples. This activity could help develop the skill that can be applied to real world situations. Have students create a three cell storyboard showing three different red flags. Anyone can be a victim or an aggressor, so having the students use different situations and characters for each cell is important. Students should avoid using classmates or friends in their storyboards.
Example Red Flags of an Unhealthy Relationship
The aggressor…
- controls aspects of the relationship
- separates the victim from their friends or family
- is overly generous
- talks badly about other people or past relationships
- is possessive of the victim
- uses insults to put down the victim
- demands access to the victim’s phone/social media
- feels as if they are never at fault
- has unpredictable mood swings
- is consistently angry
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard showing different examples of red flags in unhealthy relationships.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Create an example of a red flag discussed in class in each cell using a combination of school-appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- In the description box, write a minimum of two sentences explaining the red flag.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
---|---|---|---|
Structure | Three cells were used in with a description. The description effectively described the all red flags in two sentences or more. | Three cells were used in with a description. The description effectively described two of the three red flags in two sentences or more. | Three cells were used in with a description. The description ineffectively described two or more red flags. |
Red Flags | The three red flags depicted used exemplary school appropriate scenes, characters, and text to accurately convey what was discussed in class. | Two of the three red flags depicted used exemplary school appropriate scenes, characters, and text to accurately convey what was discussed in class. | Only one or none of the red flags depicted used school appropriate scenes, characters, and text to accurately convey what was discussed in class. |
Use of conventions | There are few to no grammar or spelling mistakes. | There are some grammar or spelling mistakes, but understanding of content is clear. | There are too many grammar or spelling mistakes creating an unclear understanding of content. |
Activity Overview
Unhealthy relationships do not start out that way at the beginning. If it did, we would recognize them and end the relationship before it got too far. The changes usualy begin during the "tension phase" in the cycle from a previous activity. Detecting red flags as soon as possible is essential for the victim's safety, and so it’s important to practice identifying potential indicators of abuse.
One safe way to do so is through creating storyboard examples. This activity could help develop the skill that can be applied to real world situations. Have students create a three cell storyboard showing three different red flags. Anyone can be a victim or an aggressor, so having the students use different situations and characters for each cell is important. Students should avoid using classmates or friends in their storyboards.
Example Red Flags of an Unhealthy Relationship
The aggressor…
- controls aspects of the relationship
- separates the victim from their friends or family
- is overly generous
- talks badly about other people or past relationships
- is possessive of the victim
- uses insults to put down the victim
- demands access to the victim’s phone/social media
- feels as if they are never at fault
- has unpredictable mood swings
- is consistently angry
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard showing different examples of red flags in unhealthy relationships.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Create an example of a red flag discussed in class in each cell using a combination of school-appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- In the description box, write a minimum of two sentences explaining the red flag.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
---|---|---|---|
Structure | Three cells were used in with a description. The description effectively described the all red flags in two sentences or more. | Three cells were used in with a description. The description effectively described two of the three red flags in two sentences or more. | Three cells were used in with a description. The description ineffectively described two or more red flags. |
Red Flags | The three red flags depicted used exemplary school appropriate scenes, characters, and text to accurately convey what was discussed in class. | Two of the three red flags depicted used exemplary school appropriate scenes, characters, and text to accurately convey what was discussed in class. | Only one or none of the red flags depicted used school appropriate scenes, characters, and text to accurately convey what was discussed in class. |
Use of conventions | There are few to no grammar or spelling mistakes. | There are some grammar or spelling mistakes, but understanding of content is clear. | There are too many grammar or spelling mistakes creating an unclear understanding of content. |
How Tos about Red Flags in Relationships
Spot Red Flags in Classroom Scenarios
Present students with short, relatable classroom situations and ask them to identify potential warning signs of unhealthy relationships. Discuss as a class why these behaviors are concerning, helping students build critical thinking skills around real-life examples.
Facilitate Open Discussions About Healthy Boundaries
Encourage students to share their ideas about what healthy boundaries look like in friendships and relationships. Guide the conversation to clarify misconceptions and reinforce the importance of respect and personal space.
Model Positive Communication Strategies
Demonstrate how to express concerns and set boundaries using role-play or scripts. Show students respectful language and assertive, non-confrontational ways to address red flags, making the skills easy to practice and remember.
Encourage Reflection Through Journaling
Invite students to write briefly in a journal about times they have noticed red flags or healthy behaviors in media, books, or their own experiences. Promote private reflection to help them internalize lessons and recognize patterns over time.
Connect Students with Support Resources
Share information about trusted adults and school counselors who can help if students are concerned about relationship red flags. Emphasize confidentiality and the importance of reaching out for support when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions about Red Flags in Relationships
What are common red flags in unhealthy relationships for high school students?
Common red flags in unhealthy relationships include controlling behavior, isolating a partner from friends or family, possessiveness, constant criticism, unpredictable mood swings, and demands for access to personal devices or social media. Recognizing these early can help prevent further harm.
How can teachers help students identify relationship red flags?
Teachers can help students identify relationship red flags by incorporating activities like storyboarding, discussing real-life scenarios, and fostering open conversations about healthy and unhealthy behaviors in relationships.
What is a storyboard activity for teaching red flags in relationships?
A storyboard activity involves students creating a series of images or scenes that illustrate different red flags in relationships. This visual exercise helps students recognize warning signs and apply their understanding to real-world situations.
Why is it important for students to recognize red flags in relationships?
It is important for students to recognize red flags in relationships so they can protect themselves, support peers, and avoid unhealthy dynamics that may lead to emotional or physical harm.
What are some examples of unhealthy relationship behaviors to discuss in class?
Examples include controlling actions, insults, isolation from friends or family, blaming others, and demanding access to private information. Discussing these helps students spot and address unhealthy relationship patterns early.
More Storyboard That Activities
Unhealthy Relationships
Testimonials

“By using the product, they were so excited and they learned so much...”–K-5 Librarian and Instructinal Technology Teacher

“I'm doing a Napoleon timeline and I'm having [students] determine whether or not Napoleon was a good guy or a bad guy or somewhere in between.”–History and Special Ed Teacher

“Students get to be creative with Storyboard That and there's so many visuals for them to pick from... It makes it really accessible for all students in the class.”–Third Grade Teacher
© 2025 - Clever Prototypes, LLC - All rights reserved.
StoryboardThat is a trademark of Clever Prototypes, LLC, and Registered in U.S. Patent and Trademark Office