Lesson Plan
Action! My First Leaps Lesson Plan
Students will break down their personal SMART goal into smaller, actionable steps and identify potential resources and support.
Translating a SMART goal into manageable steps helps prevent overwhelm, builds momentum, and fosters a sense of agency and perseverance, increasing the likelihood of success.
Audience
8th Grade
Time
30 minutes
Approach
Guided discussion and interactive goal-planning activity.
Materials
Prep
Teacher Preparation
10 minutes
Review the Action! My First Leaps Lesson Plan and all linked materials: Action! My First Leaps Slide Deck, My Goal Action Plan Worksheet, and Resource Explorer Handout. Ensure you have pens/pencils and a comfortable, private space for the individual session. Be prepared to offer gentle guidance and positive reinforcement.
Step 1
Warm-Up: Recalling Our Goal
5 minutes
ASCA Standards: Mindsets & Behaviors
- M 5. Belief in using abilities to their fullest potential.
- B-LS 7. Set high expectations for self and others.
- Greet the student warmly.
- Ask: "Last time, we set a fantastic SMART goal. Can you remind me of your goal and one reason why it's important to you?"
- Affirm their goal and reiterate its value.
Step 2
Introduction: Taking the First Leaps
5 minutes
ASCA Standards: Mindsets & Behaviors
- M 4. Sense of purpose and optimism.
- B-LS 2. Create successes.
- Transition to the Action! My First Leaps Slide Deck.
- Explain that having a SMART goal is like having a destination, and today we'll draw the map to get there by breaking it into small, manageable steps.
- Use the slides to emphasize that even big goals start with small, brave actions.
Step 3
Activity: Mapping Your Journey
15 minutes
ASCA Standards: Mindsets & Behaviors
- B-SMS 1. Demonstrate ability to assume responsibility.
- B-SMS 3. Demonstrate ability to work independently.
- Introduce the My Goal Action Plan Worksheet. Hand it to the student.
- Guide the student through breaking their SMART goal into 3-5 smaller, sequential steps.
- For each step, encourage them to think about what actions are needed, what resources they might use (offer the Resource Explorer Handout as a prompt), and what potential challenges they might face.
- Provide support, ask clarifying questions, and ensure the steps feel achievable.
- Emphasize that it's okay if the plan changes; it's a living document.
Step 4
Cool-Down: My Next Small Step
5 minutes
ASCA Standards: Mindsets & Behaviors
- M 6. Positive attitude toward work and learning.
- B-SMS 3. Demonstrate ability to work independently.
- Move to the final slide of the Action! My First Leaps Slide Deck.
- Ask the student: "Looking at your action plan, what is the very first small step you will commit to taking before our next session?"
- Affirm their commitment and praise their proactive planning.
- Briefly recap: Today we turned a big goal into a clear path. Collect the worksheet for review.
Slide Deck
Action! My First Leaps
Turning Your SMART Goal into Action!
Welcome the student and refer back to their SMART goal from the previous session.
Your Guiding Star: Our SMART Goal
What was the powerful SMART goal you set last time? Why is it important to you?
Ask the student to remind you of their SMART goal. Affirm its importance.
The Power of Small Steps
Even the biggest journeys start with one small, brave leap.
Explain that today we're breaking the big goal into smaller, easier steps. Emphasize that every journey begins with a single step.
Mapping Your Journey
Let's think about all the steps, big and small, that will get you to your goal.
Introduce the idea of brainstorming all possible steps, then organizing them.
Who & What Can Help?
What people, tools, or knowledge can help you on your path?
Explain the importance of identifying resources (people, tools, knowledge). Refer to the Resource Explorer Handout.
Bumps in the Road? No Problem!
What challenges might you face? How can you leap over them?
Discuss potential challenges and how to overcome them. Emphasize resilience and problem-solving.
Your Personal Action Plan
Let's use the My Goal Action Plan Worksheet to map out your journey step-by-step!
Introduce the 'My Goal Action Plan Worksheet' and explain its purpose. Guide them to begin filling it out.
Your Journey Begins!
You've mapped your course! What's the very first step you'll take this week?
Facilitate the cool-down. Ask about their very first concrete step. Provide positive encouragement.
Worksheet
My Goal Action Plan: Taking My First Leaps
Great job setting your SMART goal! Now, let's break it down into smaller, manageable steps. This will make your goal feel less overwhelming and help you see your path forward!
My SMART Goal: (Write your SMART goal here)
Breaking It Down: Step-by-Step
Think of 3-5 major steps you need to take to achieve your SMART goal. For each step, answer the questions below.
Step 1:
- What specific actions do I need to take for this step?
- What resources or support might I need for this step? (Think about people, tools, information, etc. Refer to your Resource Explorer Handout!)
- When will I complete this step by?
Step 2:
- What specific actions do I need to take for this step?
- What resources or support might I need for this step?
- When will I complete this step by?
Step 3:
- What specific actions do I need to take for this step?
- What resources or support might I need for this step?
- When will I complete this step by?
(Add more steps if needed)
My Very First Leap:
Looking at your plan, what is the one smallest action you will take to start working on your goal this week?
Reading
Resource Explorer: Who and What Can Help Me?
Achieving a goal is often easier when you know what resources are available to help you. Think about your SMART goal and the steps you outlined in your My Goal Action Plan Worksheet. Now, let's explore who and what might be able to support you on your journey!
People Power: Who can help me?
Think about people in your life who might have knowledge, experience, or be able to offer encouragement for your goal. These could be family members, teachers, counselors, friends, or even community members.
- Who could offer advice or guidance? (e.g., a teacher for an academic goal, a coach for a sports goal)
- Who could offer encouragement or keep me accountable? (e.g., a parent, a trusted friend)
- Are there any groups or clubs that could support my goal? (e.g., a study group, a school club)
Tool & Info Power: What can help me?
Consider what materials, tools, or information might be useful for your goal. This could include books, websites, apps, equipment, or even specific locations.
- What books, websites, or apps could provide useful information or help me learn a skill?
- Are there any physical tools or materials I might need? (e.g., art supplies, a specific type of software)
- Are there specific places that would help me work on my goal? (e.g., the library, a quiet study spot, a community center)
My Top 3 Resources:
Based on your brainstorm, list the three most important resources you think will help you achieve your SMART goal.
Remember, it's smart to use the resources around you! Don't be afraid to ask for help or seek out what you need to succeed.
Lesson Plan
Setting Your Guiding Star Lesson Plan
Students will define and create a personal SMART goal, leveraging their identified strengths.
Setting SMART goals provides a clear roadmap for success, fostering focus and accountability, and translating self-awareness into actionable steps.
Audience
8th Grade
Time
30 minutes
Approach
Guided discussion and interactive goal-setting activity.
Materials
Prep
Teacher Preparation
10 minutes
Review the Setting Your Guiding Star Lesson Plan and all linked materials: SMART Goal Slide Deck, SMART Goal Setting Worksheet, and SMART Goal Examples Reading. Ensure you have pens/pencils and a comfortable, private space for the individual session.
Step 1
Warm-Up: Recalling Our Stars
5 minutes
ASCA Standards: Mindsets & Behaviors
- M 2. Self-confidence in ability to succeed.
- B-SMS 1. Demonstrate ability to assume responsibility.
- Greet the student warmly, referencing the previous session.
- Ask: "Last time, we talked about your amazing 'star strengths.' What was one strength you felt proud of or rediscovered about yourself?"
- Briefly affirm their response and link it to building on those strengths today.
Step 2
Introduction to SMART Goals
10 minutes
ASCA Standards: Mindsets & Behaviors
- M 5. Belief in using abilities to their fullest potential.
- B-LS 7. Set high expectations for self and others.
- Transition to the SMART Goal Slide Deck.
- Explain that today we'll take those strengths and use a tool called SMART goals to help them achieve big things.
- Go through each letter of SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) using the slides, providing clear explanations and checking for understanding.
Step 3
Activity: Crafting Your Guiding Star
10 minutes
ASCA Standards: Mindsets & Behaviors
- M 4. Sense of purpose and optimism.
- B-LS 2. Create successes.
- Introduce the SMART Goal Setting Worksheet. Hand it to the student.
- Guide the student through the worksheet, encouraging them to think about a personal goal they want to achieve, either academic or social-emotional.
- Remind them to think about how their 'star strengths' can help them with this goal.
- Provide support and prompts as they fill out each section of the worksheet to make their goal SMART.
- Offer the SMART Goal Examples Reading as a reference if they need ideas or clarification.
Step 4
Cool-Down: My First Step
5 minutes
ASCA Standards: Mindsets & Behaviors
- M 6. Positive attitude toward work and learning.
- B-SMS 3. Demonstrate ability to work independently.
- Move to the final slide of the SMART Goal Slide Deck.
- Ask the student: "What is one 'first step' you can take towards your SMART goal this week?"
- Affirm their commitment and reinforce the value of their new goal.
- Briefly recap the session's purpose: turning strengths into actionable, guiding goals.
- Thank them for their participation and enthusiasm. Collect the worksheet for review.
Slide Deck
Setting Your Guiding Star
Charting Your Course with SMART Goals
Welcome the student and express enthusiasm for their journey of setting goals. Briefly link back to the previous session on strengths.
Where Did Your Stars Shine Brightest?
Last time, we explored your unique 'star strengths'. How can those strengths help you aim high?
Remind the student about their identified strengths. Ask for one example to reinforce the connection to this session.
What Makes a Goal SMART?
A powerful way to turn your dreams into achievable plans!
Introduce the concept of SMART goals as a framework for effective goal setting.
S is for Specific:
Your goal should be clear and well-defined. What exactly do you want to achieve?
Explain 'Specific' using clear language and perhaps an example. Check for understanding.
M is for Measurable:
How will you know when you've reached your goal? Can you track your progress?
Explain 'Measurable'. How will the student track progress? What will success look like?
A is for Achievable:
Is this goal something you can actually accomplish? Is it challenging but possible?
Explain 'Achievable'. Emphasize stretching themselves while keeping it realistic.
R is for Relevant:
Why is this goal important to you? Does it connect to your aspirations?
Explain 'Relevant'. The goal should matter to the student and align with their values.
T is for Time-bound:
When will you achieve this goal? Setting a target date keeps you focused.
Explain 'Time-bound'. The importance of a deadline for motivation.
Let's Chart Your Course!
Now, let's use the SMART Goal Setting Worksheet to create your very own SMART goal. Remember your strengths!
Introduce the 'SMART Goal Setting Worksheet'. Explain they will use it to draft their own goal. Encourage them to use their identified strengths.
Your Guiding Star Awaits!
You've set a powerful goal. What's one small step you can take towards it this week?
Facilitate the cool-down. Ask about their first step and provide positive reinforcement.
Worksheet
My Guiding Star: Setting a SMART Goal
Now that you know your strengths, let's use the SMART goal framework to set a clear and powerful goal for yourself! Think about something you want to achieve, whether it's in school, a hobby, or a personal skill.
My Goal Idea:
What is a general idea of a goal you have in mind? (Don't worry about making it SMART yet, just your initial thought!)
Making it SMART:
Let's break down your goal and make it SMART!
Specific: What exactly do you want to achieve?
- Who is involved (if anyone)?
- What exactly do you want to do?
- Where will this happen?
- When will this happen? (A general idea for now)
Measurable: How will you track your progress? How will you know when you've succeeded?
- How much? How many? (e.g., "read 3 chapters," "score 80% on test")
Achievable: Is this goal realistic and within your reach, even if it's a challenge?
- Do you have the skills or resources, or can you get them?
- What strengths do you have that will help you achieve this goal?
Relevant: Why is this goal important to you? Does it align with your values or other aspirations?
- How will achieving this goal benefit you?
Time-bound: When exactly will you achieve this goal by?
- What is your target completion date?
My SMART Goal:
Combine all the SMART parts into one clear statement about your goal:
My First Step:
What is the very first thing you will do to start working on this goal?
Reading
SMART Goal Examples
Here are some examples of goals that have been made SMART. Use these to help you think about how to make your own goals specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound!
Example 1: Academic Goal
Vague Goal: I want to do better in math.
SMART Goal: I will improve my math test scores by 10% (from an average of 75% to 85%) by the end of the next grading period, by attending tutoring twice a week and completing all homework assignments on time.
- Specific: Improve math test scores by 10%, attend tutoring, complete homework.
- Measurable: Test scores (75% to 85%), twice a week tutoring, all homework completed.
- Achievable: Attending tutoring and completing homework are actions within the student's control.
- Relevant: Important for overall academic success and understanding math concepts.
- Time-bound: By the end of the next grading period.
Example 2: Personal / Social-Emotional Goal
Vague Goal: I want to be less stressed.
SMART Goal: I will reduce my daily screen time by 30 minutes (from 3 hours to 2.5 hours) for recreational use by the end of this month, and replace that time with a 15-minute mindfulness exercise each day, to help manage my stress levels and improve my focus.
- Specific: Reduce screen time, replace with mindfulness exercise.
- Measurable: Screen time by 30 minutes (3 hours to 2.5 hours), 15-minute exercise daily.
- Achievable: Reducing screen time by a manageable amount and incorporating a short exercise.
- Relevant: Directly addresses the desire to reduce stress and improve focus.
- Time-bound: By the end of this month.
Example 3: Skill Development Goal
Vague Goal: I want to learn to play the guitar.
SMART Goal: I will be able to play three basic chords on the guitar (G, C, D) smoothly and transition between them within 5 seconds by practicing for 20 minutes, 5 days a week, for the next two months, so I can start learning simple songs.
- Specific: Play three basic chords (G, C, D), smooth transitions within 5 seconds.
- Measurable: Three chords, 5-second transitions, 20 minutes, 5 days/week.
- Achievable: Focus on basic chords and consistent practice makes it realistic.
- Relevant: Desired skill, allows for learning simple songs.
- Time-bound: For the next two months.
Lesson Plan
You're a Star! Lesson Plan
Students will identify personal strengths and past achievements to build self-confidence and understand the purpose of SMART goals.
Building confidence helps students believe in their ability to achieve goals and navigate challenges, laying a strong foundation for future success and goal-setting.
Audience
8th Grade
Time
30 minutes
Approach
Guided discussion and interactive journaling activity.
Materials
Prep
Teacher Preparation
10 minutes
Review the You're a Star! Lesson Plan and all linked materials: Confidence Slide Deck, My Confidence Journal, and SMART Goal Introduction Handout. Ensure you have pens/pencils and a comfortable, private space for the individual session.
Step 1
Warm-Up: What's Your Superpower?
5 minutes
ASCA Standards: Mindsets & Behaviors
- M 1. Belief in development of whole self, including a healthy balance of mental, social/emotional and physical well-being.
- B-SS 1. Utilize effective oral and written communication skills and listening skills.
- Greet the student warmly.
- Present the first slide of the Confidence Slide Deck and introduce the 'What's Your Superpower?' warm-up.
- Ask: "If you had a superpower that helped you in school or in life, what would it be? It doesn't have to be a magic power; it could be something you're naturally good at or something you love to do."
- Encourage the student to share and briefly discuss their superpower.
Step 2
Session Activity: My Star Strengths
15 minutes
ASCA Standards: Mindsets & Behaviors
- M 2. Self-confidence in ability to succeed.
- M 3. Sense of belonging in the school environment.
- B-LS 2. Create successes.
- Transition to the 'Shine Bright: Recognizing Your Strengths' slide of the Confidence Slide Deck.
- Explain that everyone has unique strengths, like stars that shine brightly.
- Introduce the My Confidence Journal. Hand it to the student.
- Guide the student through the journal prompts, encouraging them to think about times they felt successful or proud, and what strengths they used. For example, 'Think about a time you helped a friend. What strength did you use?' or 'When have you successfully solved a problem, big or small? What skills did you rely on?'
- Provide gentle prompts and positive affirmations as they complete the journal. Emphasize that these are their personal reflections.
Step 3
Transition to SMART Goals
5 minutes
ASCA Standards: Mindsets & Behaviors
- M 5. Belief in using abilities to their fullest potential.
- B-LS 7. Set high expectations for self and others.
- B-SMS 1. Demonstrate ability to assume responsibility.
- Transition to the 'What are SMART Goals?' slide of the Confidence Slide Deck.
- Explain that recognizing their strengths is a great first step towards setting goals.
- Briefly introduce the concept of SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound).
- Hand them the SMART Goal Introduction Handout for them to review before the next session.
- Explain that in our next session, we'll use their strengths to help set a personal SMART goal.
Step 4
Reflection & Transition Out
5 minutes
ASCA Standards: Mindsets & Behaviors
- M 6. Positive attitude toward work and learning.
- B-SMS 2. Demonstrate self-discipline and self-control.
- Move to the 'Next Steps' slide of the Confidence Slide Deck.
- Ask the student: "What is one 'star strength' you rediscovered about yourself today, or one thing you feel more confident about?"
- Affirm their response.
- Briefly recap the session's purpose: recognizing strengths to build confidence and prepare for goal setting.
- Remind them to think about the SMART Goal handout for next time.
- Thank them for their participation and transition out of the session.
Slide Deck
You're a Star! Building Confidence & Setting Goals
Recognizing your unique strengths and talents.
Welcome the student and set a positive tone for the session. Briefly introduce the theme of confidence and personal strengths.
What's Your Superpower?
Think about something you're really good at or something you love to do. What's one 'superpower' that helps you in school or in life?
Introduce the warm-up activity. Encourage creative and thoughtful responses. Emphasize that a 'superpower' can be any strong quality or skill.
Shine Bright: Recognizing Your Strengths
Every star has its own unique light. What makes your light shine?
Explain the purpose of this section: to identify and appreciate their own strengths. Transition to introducing the journal activity.
Past Wins, Future Gains
Let's reflect on times you felt proud and what strengths you used. How do these past wins make you feel about future possibilities?
Guide the student through the 'My Confidence Journal' activity. Provide specific examples if they struggle to think of strengths or achievements. Reinforce their contributions positively.
What are SMART Goals?
A tool to help you turn your strengths into actionable steps for success!
Specific
Measurable
Achieveable
Relevant
Time-bound
Briefly introduce the concept of SMART goals as a way to use their newly recognized strengths. Explain that this is a preview for the next session. Hand out the 'SMART Goal Introduction Handout'.
Next Steps: Your Journey Continues!
Today, you've recognized your inner strengths.
Next session, we'll use these strengths to set exciting, achievable goals for your future!
Facilitate a brief reflection. Reiterate the value of their strengths and how they connect to goal setting. Confirm the plan for the next session. Thank them and transition out.
Journal
My Confidence Journal: Shining Bright
Take a moment to think about your unique strengths and talents. Everyone has them, just like every star has its own special light! Let's explore what makes your light shine.
Part 1: My Personal Superpowers
-
What is one thing you are really good at, whether it's in school, a hobby, or helping others?
-
What is something you enjoy doing that makes you feel strong or capable?
-
Describe a time when you felt proud of something you accomplished. What did you do, and why did it make you feel proud?
Part 2: Strengths in Action
Think about the accomplishments or moments of pride you just wrote about. What personal qualities or skills did you use? Circle or list some of the strengths below that helped you, and add any others you can think of!
- Creative
- Determined
- Helpful
- Kind
- Problem-solver
- Organized
- Patient
- Resilient
- Listener
- Team Player
- Brave
- Curious
- Optimistic
My top 3 strengths I used are:
Part 3: Looking Forward
How does recognizing these strengths make you feel about what you can achieve in the future? Write a few sentences about your thoughts.
Reading
What are SMART Goals?
Setting goals is an important part of growing and achieving what you want in life. To make sure your goals are powerful and achievable, it helps to make them SMART!
S.M.A.R.T. is an acronym that stands for:
Specific
Your goal should be clear and well-defined, not vague. Instead of saying "I want to do better in school," a specific goal would be "I want to improve my grade in Math to a B+".
- Ask yourself: What exactly do I want to achieve? Who is involved? Where will this happen? When will this happen?
Measurable
You need a way to track your progress and know when you've reached your goal. How will you know when you've succeeded?
- Ask yourself: How much? How many? How will I know when it is accomplished?
Achievable
Your goal should be realistic and something you can actually accomplish, even if it's a bit of a challenge. It should stretch you, but not be impossible.
- Ask yourself: Is this goal possible for me to achieve? Do I have the necessary resources and skills, or can I get them?
Relevant
The goal should matter to you and align with your values and other objectives. It should be something you truly want to work towards.
- Ask yourself: Is this goal important to me? Does it fit into my bigger picture or other life aspirations?
Time-bound
Every SMART goal needs a deadline. This creates a sense of urgency and helps you stay motivated.
- Ask yourself: When do I want to achieve this goal by? What are the specific start and end dates?
Warm Up
What's Your Superpower? Warm-Up
Welcome! To start our session today, let's think about something fun.
If you had a 'superpower' that helped you in school or in life, what would it be? It doesn't have to be a magic power; it could be something you're naturally good at, a special skill you have, or something you love to do.
For example:
- Maybe your superpower is 'Super Listener' because you're really good at hearing what others have to say.
- Perhaps it's 'Problem Solver Extraordinaire' because you love finding solutions to tricky situations.
- Or maybe it's 'Artistic Visionary' because you're great at drawing or creating things.
What's your superpower?
How does this superpower help you?
Cool Down
Star Strengths Cool-Down: Shining On
Great job today reflecting on your strengths! To wrap up our session, let's take a moment to reflect on what you discovered.
-
What is one "star strength" you rediscovered or felt more confident about today?
-
How might recognizing this strength help you in the future, especially as we start thinking about goals?
Remember, your strengths are like your own unique light, and they will help guide you as you set and achieve your goals!