OOPA’s World of Words: GRATITUDE 

What do we have GRATITUDE for?

GRATITUDE Teaching Guide 

In this civics lesson, students will visit OOPA’s Wordshop to connect with the word GRATITUDE. They will watch a short video that introduces this civic character trait through conversation and movement. Then, students will create a balloon bouquet or arrangement to express their GRATITUDE.

Learning Objectives 

Students will be able to: 

• Identify people, places, things, and moments of GRATITUDE
• Explain ways to show GRATITUDE
• Create a balloon bouquet or arrangement to express GRATITUDE for people, places, pets, and important things

Materials 

• GRATITUDE video 

• Chart paper and markers  

• GRATITUDE Balloon
• Writing, color supplies, scissors
• Curling ribbon and decorative materials
• Optional: journal or shoebox

Accommodations and Modifications 

Prepare the learning space to allow room for movement. Students can stand or sit while connecting to the word GRATITUDE in the movement segment. Use assistive art tools for the art activity and provide ample time for student reflection.

Before the Video 

What do you know about GRATITUDE? Allow students time to reflect and respond to the question or have a “turn and talk.”

During the Video 

Play the GRATITUDE video from OOPA’S World of Words. If needed, pause the video after the conversation in the Wordshop segment [3:17] to prepare students for movement.

After the Video 

What does the word GRATITUDE make you think about? How does the word GRATITUDE make your body move? Allow students to reflect and respond to the question or have a “turn and talk.”

Whole Group Movement 

Write the word “GRATITUDE” on chart paper or the board. Create a two-column visual, with the left side titled “I have GRATITUDE for…” and the right side titled “Movement.” Create a class list of 10 things students are grateful for, then brainstorm a movement/gesture to pair with each. Encourage students to be specific and dig deep into their responses — “my dad teaching me soccer” vs “my dad” or “walks to school with friends” vs “walks.” Use those responses to generate movement ideas. For example, my dad teaching me soccer/running in place then pretending to kick a ball, walking to school with friends/locking arms with a classmate and skipping together. Be playful and have fun with the movements! When the list is done, lead students through the movements. Each day, select a different student to review the list and guide the class in a group movement activity.

Going Deeper with the Arts  

Ask the essential question: What do we have GRATITUDE for? Distribute the GRATITUDE Balloon with writing, coloring, and cutting supplies. Give students time to write or draw what GRATITUDE makes them think about. Cut out all balloons and assemble them into a bouquet or arrangement. Work together to finalize the design and placement. Display the finished bouquet in the hallway or the arrangement around the classroom door. Add finishing touches with curling ribbon or other decorative elements to enhance your display. Reflect on the collaborative artwork. Ask: How can a balloon symbolize the GRATITUDE we feel?

Extend the Learning 

CIVICS Journal or Mailbox 

Create a class CIVICS journal or mailbox where students, teachers, and staff can document acts of COURAGE, FREEDOM, GRATITUDE, JUSTICE and SERVICE that they witness throughout the school year. Establishing a routine to celebrate and recognize these acts fosters a positive school community, strengthens relationships and enhances well-being.

Say Hi to OOPA

OOPA loves to receive and respond to letters. Use this Write to OOPA Template or send your own letter and drawing to:  OOPA, PO Box 467, Pipersville, PA 18947

Head back to the main page to view the other videos in the series!