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Winter Wishes: Community Wishing Tree

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Elizabeth Swible

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Winter Wishes: Community Wishing Tree

Encourage self-expression

In this lesson, students will express their hopes, dreams, or kind wishes for the upcoming year by writing them on leaf-shaped cutouts and attaching them to a collective 'wishing tree' display. This activity fosters a sense of community and shared positivity as students see their goals and dreams united in one place. It helps students develop self-expression and empathy by considering their own wishes and those of their peers.

Audience

Grades 1-5

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Encourage self-expression

Materials

Leaf-shaped cutouts, Markers or colored pencils, Tape or glue, Large paper tree display, and Discussion Questions

Step 1

Introduction

5 minutes

  • Welcome students and introduce the concept of a 'wishing tree'.
  • Explain that they will be writing their hopes, dreams, or kind wishes for the upcoming year on leaf-shaped cutouts.
  • Discuss the importance of sharing positive thoughts and building a community.

Step 2

Creating Wishes

10 minutes

  • Distribute leaf-shaped cutouts and markers or colored pencils to each student.
  • Instruct students to write or draw their wishes on the cutouts.
  • Encourage creativity and self-expression.

Step 3

Building the Wishing Tree

10 minutes

  • Have students come up one by one to attach their leaf to the large paper tree display using tape or glue.
  • As each student attaches their leaf, they can share their wish with the class if they feel comfortable.

Step 4

Closure

5 minutes

  • Gather students around the completed wishing tree.
  • Reflect on the variety of wishes and discuss how they contribute to a positive classroom environment.
  • Encourage students to support each other's wishes throughout the year.
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Discussion

Wishing Tree Reflection

A discussion to reflect on the activity and its impact on the classroom community.

What was your favorite part of creating the wishing tree?

Encourage students to share their experiences and feelings about the activity.







How do you think our wishing tree can help us as a class?

Discuss the importance of community and supporting each other's goals.







What are some ways we can help each other achieve our wishes?

Brainstorm ideas for collaboration and support among classmates.







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