Lesson Plan
Gratitude Tree Reflection Lesson Plan
Students will create a visual gratitude tree that highlights what they appreciate in their lives, fostering a sense of community and personal reflection.
This lesson builds emotional awareness and gratitude, encouraging positivity while strengthening interpersonal connections among students.
Audience
Elementary School Students
Time
45-60 minutes
Approach
Teacher-guided discussion with interactive visual art and sharing.
Prep
Preparation
10 minutes
- Review the Gratitude Tree Reflection Lesson Plan for detailed guidance.
- Prepare a large poster board or wall space to display the gratitude tree.
- Gather art supplies such as paper, markers, scissors, and glue for leaf creation.
- Familiarize yourself with the Slide Deck to structure the discussion.
Step 1
Introduction and Discussion
10 minutes
- Begin with a brief discussion on gratitude and its impact on well-being.
- Use the Slide Deck to introduce key concepts and examples.
- Encourage students to share what gratitude means to them in a safe, supportive environment.
Step 2
Gratitude Tree Creation
20 minutes
- Distribute art supplies to each student.
- Instruct students to create a leaf that represents something they are thankful for.
- As students finish, have them come forward and add their leaf to the gratitude tree displayed on the board or wall.
- Allow each student a moment to share the story behind their leaf if they choose.
Step 3
Reflection and Sharing
10 minutes
- Facilitate a group reflection discussing what the activity meant to everyone.
- Ask reflective questions such as: What did you learn about gratitude today? How can you incorporate gratitude into your daily life?
- Conclude by emphasizing the value of recognizing and appreciating everyday blessings.
Slide Deck
Welcome to the Gratitude Tree Reflection
Today we explore the things that make us thankful. Let's think about what we appreciate in our lives.
Welcome students and introduce the activity. Use the colors #F2CE8B, #F2B97A, and #F2A469 throughout the slide for consistency. Discuss what gratitude means.
What is Gratitude?
Gratitude means recognizing and appreciating the good things in our lives. What does gratitude look like for you?
Discuss the concept of gratitude. Engage the class by asking what things they are grateful for. Use interactive questions.
Creating Our Gratitude Tree
- Create a leaf representing something you're thankful for.
- Share your leaf with the group if you feel comfortable.
- Place your leaf on our Gratitude Tree poster.
Illustrate the activity step by step. Ensure the students understand they will be creating a leaf to add to our class's gratitude tree.
Reflection & Sharing
Let's talk about what we learned today. What new things about gratitude did you discover? How can we continue to show gratitude everyday?
Introduce the element of sharing and reflection. Encourage students to share their stories behind their gratitude leaves.
Thank You for Sharing
Your gratitude today helps build a supportive community. Keep appreciating the small blessings in life!
Close the session by summarizing the key points about gratitude. Encourage a lasting positive mindset.
Activity
Gratitude Tree Activity Instructions
This activity guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions for creating your personal gratitude leaf. Follow the directions below and let your creativity shine through as you express what you are thankful for.
Materials Needed
- Paper (preferably in a bright color)
- Markers, crayons, or colored pencils
- Scissors and glue
- (Optional) Stickers or decorative items
Instructions
1. Prepare Your Work Area
- Ensure you have a clean, comfortable space to work in.
- Gather all your art supplies.
2. Create Your Gratitude Leaf
- Take a piece of paper and draw a large leaf outline. If you need inspiration, think about the shape of a real leaf or design your own unique shape.
- In the center of the leaf, write a word or phrase that represents something you are grateful for. This could be a person, a place, an experience, or a personal quality.
3. Decorate Your Leaf
- Use your markers or crayons to add color and patterns to your leaf.
- Feel free to add stickers or other decorative items to personalize your creation. Make sure your leaf reflects your feelings of gratitude!
4. Share Your Story
- Once your leaf is complete, prepare to add it to the class Gratitude Tree. Each student will take turns to share the story behind their leaf if they feel comfortable.
- Listen to your classmates' stories, and think about how everyone has unique blessings in their life.
5. Reflect and Celebrate
- After all the leaves are added to our Gratitude Tree, take a moment to reflect on all the beautiful things we are thankful for as a community.
- Write down or share one new thing you learned about gratitude during this activity.
Tips for Success
- Be Creative: There is no right or wrong way to design your leaf. Use colors and shapes that resonate with you.
- Think Deeply: Consider moments, people, or experiences that enrich your life when choosing your gratitude focus.
- Share Openly: If you feel comfortable, share the story behind your leaf to inspire others.
Enjoy the process and celebrate the many blessings in your life!
For additional details and guidance, please refer to the Gratitude Tree Reflection Lesson Plan and the Gratitude Tree Reflection Slide Deck.
Worksheet
Gratitude Leaf Template
Below is a new leaf design for you to create your gratitude leaf. Write your gratitude message inside the leaf and decorate it with your own creative flair.
.-~~~-.
.~ ~.
.' '.
/ \
; ;
| THANK |
| YOU FOR |
| YOUR THANKS |
; ;
\ /
'. .'
'~. .~'
'-...-'
Write your gratitude message within the leaf outline above:
Feel free to add additional drawings, colors, or patterns around the leaf to showcase your personal style of gratitude!