Reflective Journaling Journey

Orissa Lavia

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Reflective Journaling Journey

Cultivate self-awareness through reflection

This lesson guides students through a reflective journaling exercise focused on their experiences over the past year. By identifying key moments and personal growth, students can cultivate a deep sense of self-awareness and appreciation for their journey. This lesson is important as it encourages introspection, helping students to recognize their achievements and areas for growth, fostering a positive mindset and emotional intelligence.

Audience

Grades 5-8 Students

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Cultivate self-awareness through reflection

Materials

Journals or paper, Pens or pencils, Reflection and Self-Discovery Worksheet, and Discussion Questions

Step 1

Introduction

5 minutes

Welcome students and explain the purpose of the lesson: to reflect on the past year and recognize personal growth.
Discuss the importance of reflection in understanding oneself and setting future goals.

Step 2

Guided Journaling

15 minutes

Distribute the 'Reflection and Self-Discovery Worksheet'.
Guide students through the worksheet, encouraging them to think about key moments, challenges, and achievements from the past year.
Allow students to write freely, emphasizing that this is a personal exercise and there are no right or wrong answers.

Step 3

Group Discussion

8 minutes

Invite students to share their reflections in small groups or with the class, if comfortable.
Use the 'Discussion Questions' to facilitate conversation about common themes and insights.
Encourage students to listen actively and respect each other's experiences.

Step 4

Closure

2 minutes

Summarize the key takeaways from the discussion.
Encourage students to continue reflecting on their experiences and to use their insights to set personal goals for the upcoming year.

0 educators
use Lenny to create lessons.

No credit card needed

Worksheet

Reflection and Self-Discovery Worksheet

This worksheet guides students through a reflective journaling exercise, prompting them to think about their experiences over the past year.

What was a key moment for you this year?

Think about a moment that stands out, whether positive or challenging.

What is something you learned about yourself?

Consider a new skill, strength, or insight you gained.

What is one thing you are proud of achieving?

Reflect on an accomplishment, big or small, that made you proud.

What is a challenge you faced and how did you overcome it?

Think about a difficult situation and how you managed it.

What are your goals for the next year?

Consider areas for growth or new things you want to try.

Discussion

Discussion Questions

These questions are designed to facilitate a group discussion about students' reflections and insights from their journaling exercise.

What common themes did you notice in your reflections?

Encourage students to identify patterns or recurring ideas in their reflections.

How did reflecting on the past year make you feel?

Discuss the emotions that arose during the journaling process.

What is one insight you gained from someone else's reflection?

Foster a sense of community by sharing and learning from each other's experiences.