# Appreciating Others Activity This activity is designed to guide special education middle school students through a creative process where they express appreciation by creating a birthday card for their teacher. The activity is part of the "Appreciating Others" lesson and promotes both artistic expression and social-emotional learning. ## Objectives - Understand the importance of showing appreciation - Practice expressing gratitude through a creative art project - Enhance fine motor and communication skills ## Materials Needed - Paper or cardstock for the card - Markers, crayons, or colored pencils - Stickers, glue, and other decorative supplies - [Birthday Card Crafting Template](#birthday-card-crafting-template) (Use this as a guide for layout and design ideas) ## Steps 1. **Introduction (3 minutes):**
- Briefly discuss with the students why it is nice to appreciate others and how a small gesture can brighten someone's day.

2. **Exploring the Template (2 minutes):**
- Show the [Birthday Card Crafting Template](#birthday-card-crafting-template) to the class and discuss its components (e.g., space for a greeting, artwork area, and message section).

3. **Creative Time (10 minutes):**
- Allow students to use the template as a guide to create their own birthday card for their teacher. Encourage them to add personal touches such as their own drawings, messages, or decorations.

4. **Sharing and Reflection (5 minutes):**
- Invite students to share their cards with the group. Ask them to explain what they created and why they chose those particular designs or words.

## Follow-Up Questions - What feelings do you think your teacher will have when they receive your card?

- How can small acts of appreciation like making a card make a big difference in someone’s day?

- Share a time when someone made you happy with a kind word or gesture. How did that make you feel?

This activity not only allows for creative expression, but it also reinforces the important social-emotional lesson of showing appreciation. Enjoy this expressive time and remember that your creative gift can brighten someone's day!

Lesson Plan

Appreciating Others Lesson Plan

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Preparation

Step 1

Introduction and Discussion

Step 2

Birthday Card Activity

Activity

Appreciating Others

Ariana Bueno