Gratitude Journals: Cultivating Thankfulness

Sonja Shine

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Gratitude Journals: Cultivating Thankfulness

To practice gratitude through journaling

In this lesson, students will learn about the concept of gratitude and how it can positively affect mental health. They will keep a gratitude journal to reflect on things they are thankful for. This practice can enhance their emotional well-being and foster a positive mindset.

Audience

5th Grade Students

Time

30 mins

Approach

To practice gratitude through journaling

Materials

Notebook or journal for each student, Pens or pencils, Gratitude Journal Entry Worksheet, and Discussion Guide

Step 1

Introduction to Gratitude

5 mins

Introduce the concept of gratitude to the students. Explain how being thankful can make us feel happier and improve our mental health. Ask students if they have ever felt happy after saying thank you to someone.

Step 2

Benefits Discussion

5 mins

Discuss the benefits of practicing gratitude. Use the Discussion Guide to facilitate the conversation. Explore how gratitude helps us focus on the positive aspects of our lives and fosters a sense of contentment.

Step 3

Journal Writing Activity

15 mins

Hand out the Gratitude Journal Entry Worksheet to each student. Instruct them to think of three things they are thankful for and write about them in their journals. Encourage them to be specific and explain why they are grateful for those things.

Step 4

Reflection and Sharing

5 mins

Invite students to share one thing from their journals if they feel comfortable. Discuss how writing about gratitude made them feel. Conclude with a reminder to practice gratitude regularly to maintain a positive outlook.

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Discussion

Discussion Guide

Guide for discussing the concept and benefits of gratitude with the students.

What does gratitude mean to you?

Help students understand gratitude as being thankful for the good things in our lives.

How do you feel when you are grateful?

Encourage students to explore the positive emotions associated with gratitude.

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

Discuss the impact of receiving gratitude and how it strengthens our relationships.

Worksheet

Gratitude Journal Entry Worksheet

Worksheet for students to write about three things they are thankful for and explain why.

Write about the first thing you are grateful for.

Think of something that made you smile recently.

Write about the second thing you are grateful for.

Consider something or someone that helps you in your daily life.

Write about the third thing you are grateful for.

Think of a place or activity that brings you joy.