Gratitude Grade 2 Lesson Plan: Word Play

Grade Level: Second Grade

In this lesson plan, second graders use BrainPOP Jr. resources to explore the concept of gratitude. They learn how being grateful can help them be a better friend and show compassion. Then they practice mindfulness as a way to appreciate the people around them.  

 

Lesson Plan Common Core State Standards Alignments

Students will:

  1. Build background knowledge: Watch the BrainPOP Jr. Gratitude movie.
  2. Express understanding: Draw, write, and or create a skit using vocabulary associated with the concept of gratitude.
  3. Complete an Assessment: Show what you know by practicing mindfulness.

Materials:

  • Internet access for BrainPOP Jr.
  • Printout of Word Play (offline option)

Preparation:

  *If using this lesson for distance learning, setup for video conferencing, such as Zoom, Google Meet, etc. Create and send an invitation with a link.

Lesson Procedure:

  1. Tap students’ prior knowledge. Ask: What are you thankful for? How do you feel when you think about the people and things you’re thankful for?
  2. Watch the BrainPOP Jr. movie Gratitude. Click the pause button each time a question appears in Annie’s Notebook and answer it. Then play to see how Annie answers it.  TIP: The pause button turns red to remind you to pause. 

    Offline Option: Print out the transcript and Annie’s Notebook for a grown-up to read aloud at home. Suggest that the child play Moby and “Beep” in response to Annie.
  3. Instruct students to open their Word Play assignment. Or, if you are not using the Assignment Builder, show how to open Word Play.  .   
  4. Hover over the prompt to hear it read aloud: Play with your words! Choose a word to explore. Draw, write, or create a skit about it. When they finish, remind them to click the Submit To Teacher button and/or print out. Offline Option: Students draw or write on the printout.
  5. Instruct students to open their Activity assignment. Or, if you are not using the Assignment Builder, show how to open the Activity.  Hover over the prompt to hear it read aloud: Practice mindfulness with Moby. For three minutes, focus on your breathing and appreciate the people around you.

    Encourage students to practice mindfulness in a quiet place where they won’t be interrupted.
Filed as:  2nd Grade, BrainPOP Jr., CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.2.4, CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.2.5, CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.2.1, CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.2.2, CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.2.5, Gratitude, Lesson Ideas, Lesson Plan, Teacher Resources, social emotional learning