Welcome students and introduce the lesson. Explain that today they will explore what perseverance means, practice it together, and leave with a personal pledge.

Prompt students: “What does perseverance mean to you?” Have them turn to a neighbor for a quick brainstorm, then share a few answers aloud. Record key words on chart paper.

Summarize student ideas and then display the formal definition. Emphasize that perseverance is an ongoing effort, not just a single act.

Introduce the video: "This short clip highlights real stories of people who persevered." Cue up the video and play.

After the video, ask: “What stood out to you? Which story inspired you the most?” Invite 2–3 volunteers to share.

Explain the group puzzle challenge steps. Assign teams, distribute kits, and start the timer. Circulate to encourage strategies like communication and taking breaks.

Once time is up or puzzles are complete, facilitate a brief share-out. Capture their strategies and feelings on chart paper.

Distribute the Personal Reflection Worksheet. Encourage students to think of a real-life moment when they persevered and describe how it felt.

Hand out the pledge template. Ask students to write one specific perseverance goal for the coming week. Invite a few to read aloud, then post pledges on the wall.

Reinforce that perseverance is a skill they can build. Encourage them to refer to their pledge and celebrate small wins.