Back to School: Gear Up with Gratitude Mini-Lessons

The busy timetables of the school year can leave little time for extensive new units of study. As teachers, instructional designers, administrators realize the compacted time demands of each day, other options are possible.

Consider mini-lessons of 10-15 minutes to reinforce essentials concepts to enhance the invitational component of your classroom or online course.

1. All Ages: Invite students to give voice to their gratitude. Youngest learners may draw and younger learners through adult learners can write or type for 10- 15 minutes on this prompt: How do you feel when you hear the words “Thank you”? Students can also text their answers to this prompt or use the Penzu online journal.
   Research Reinforcement: James Pennebaker, professor at the University of Texas conducted research that points to benefits of writing/journaling on well-being. Read more at this Link
2. For Grades PK-2: This video from PBS Learning media describes how important it is for youngest learners to show appreciation to the parents and caregivers in their lives that help them!  Watch Video
3. For Grades 5-12: Braincraft has the science behind why expressing gratitude feels so good. Watch Video
4. Have a little more time? Feeling and expressing gratitude can help students better appreciate the kindness of others and the importance of their relationships with everyone in their lives. Dive into this lesson plan from PBS Learning Media that will spark a discussion around the meaning of gratitude. Explore Lesson Plans