lenny

Gratitude in Action

Lesson Plan

Gratitude in Action

Gratitude

This lesson focuses on teaching students the importance of gratitude through collaborative and active learning strategies. Students will engage in a game-based activity to explore gratitude and participate in a guided discussion to reflect on their experiences. This lesson is important as it helps students develop a positive mindset, enhances their social-emotional skills, and fosters a supportive classroom environment.

Audience

9-12 grade students

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Collaborative Learning, Active Learning, Game-Based Learning, Trauma-Informed Teaching, Inquiry-Based Learning

Materials

Post-it notes, Pens, Gratitude Scenarios Printable Cards, Discussion Questions, and Gratitude Journals

Step 1

Introduction

5 mins

  • Begin with a brief introduction to the concept of gratitude.
  • Define gratitude as the quality of being thankful and showing appreciation for the positive aspects of life.
  • Explain the importance of gratitude in everyday life, including its benefits such as improving mental health, enhancing relationships, and increasing overall well-being.
  • Discuss specific benefits of gratitude:
    • Improved Mental Health: Reduces feelings of depression and anxiety by promoting positive emotions and thoughts.
    • Enhanced Relationships: Strengthens relationships by fostering mutual respect and appreciation.
    • Increased Resilience: Helps individuals cope with stress and adversity by focusing on positive aspects of life.
    • Greater Life Satisfaction: Leads to a more fulfilling and content life.
  • Set the tone for a positive and open-minded session.

Step 2

Gratitude Activity

10 mins

  • Distribute post-it notes and pens to each student.
  • Present the 'Gratitude Scenarios Printable Cards' and explain the rules of the activity.
  • Students will draw a card and write down a gratitude statement related to the scenario on their post-it note.
  • Encourage students to share their gratitude statements with a partner or small group.

Step 3

Gratitude Journaling

10 mins

  • Provide each student with a gratitude journal.
  • Ask students to write about three things they are grateful for today.
  • Encourage them to reflect on why they are grateful for these things and how it makes them feel.
  • Allow students to share their entries with the class if they feel comfortable.

Step 4

Discussion

5 mins

  • Use the 'Discussion Questions' attachment to guide a class discussion.
  • Encourage students to share their thoughts and feelings about the activity.
  • Discuss how practicing gratitude can impact their lives and relationships.

Step 5

Closure

2 mins

  • Summarize the key points discussed during the lesson.
  • Encourage students to practice gratitude in their daily lives.
  • Thank students for their participation and contributions.
lenny
0 educators
use Lenny to create lessons.

No credit card needed

Worksheet

Gratitude Scenarios Printable Cards

These cards contain various scenarios to help students think about gratitude in different contexts. They are used in the activity to prompt students to write gratitude statements.




You received help from a friend with your homework.







A teacher gave you positive feedback on an assignment.







You found a quiet place to relax and read a book.







Someone held the door open for you when your hands were full.







You were invited to join a group activity at lunch.




lenny
lenny

Discussion

Gratitude Discussion Questions

These questions are designed to facilitate a reflective discussion on gratitude after the activity.

What did you learn about gratitude from this activity?

Encourage students to share personal insights and any new perspectives they gained.







How did it feel to express gratitude?

Discuss the emotional impact of expressing gratitude and how it might affect their mood.







Can you think of a time when someone showed gratitude towards you? How did it make you feel?

Help students connect the concept of gratitude to their personal experiences.







How can practicing gratitude improve our relationships with others?

Explore the social benefits of gratitude and how it can strengthen bonds.







lenny
lenny