Lesson Plan

Students will collaborate in small groups to assemble custom puzzle pieces, uncovering hidden praise messages that reinforce positive behaviors and foster teamwork.

This lesson promotes a positive classroom culture by giving students tangible recognition of good behavior. Hands-on collaboration strengthens social skills and reinforces the habit of praising peers.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Prepare Puzzle Pieces

10 minutes

Step 1

Introduction

5 minutes

Step 2

Group Organization

3 minutes

Step 3

Puzzle Assembly

12 minutes

Step 4

Reveal and Discussion

7 minutes

Step 5

Reinforcement

3 minutes

Slide Deck

Praise Puzzles

Welcome students and introduce the Praise Puzzles routine. Mention today’s focus on positive feedback and teamwork.

Lesson Objective

Read the objective aloud. Ask students if they know what collaboration and praise mean.

Materials

Show each material prop or picture. Briefly explain what students will do with each item.

Introduction (5 minutes)

Script: “Today we’ll play Praise Puzzles to practice giving and receiving praise.” Show a sample completed puzzle.

Group Organization (3 minutes)

Divide fairly. Ensure each group has 3–4 students and one envelope of pieces.

Puzzle Assembly (12 minutes)

Circulate and prompt groups that may need guidance. Praise early successes.

Reveal & Discussion (7 minutes)

Record each message on the board. Ask follow-up questions to deepen reflection.

Reinforcement (3 minutes)

Distribute stickers or points. Model a specific praise statement.

Ready to Praise!

Get students excited to begin. Play upbeat music as they get into position.

Lesson Plan

Lesson Plan

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Prepare Puzzle Pieces

Step 1

Introduction

Step 2

Group Organization

Step 3

Puzzle Assembly

Step 4

Reveal and Discussion

Step 5

Reinforcement

Slide Deck

Praise Puzzles

Lesson Objective

Materials

Introduction (5 minutes)

Group Organization (3 minutes)

Puzzle Assembly (12 minutes)

Reveal & Discussion (7 minutes)

Reinforcement (3 minutes)

Ready to Praise!

Activity

Worksheet

Answer Key

Praise Puzzles

Meghan Scully

Lenny Learning

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