Lesson Plan
The Magic of Memories Plan
Students will create memory jars that capture cherished memories of a friend they miss, while building emotional intelligence and understanding the value of relationships.
This lesson nurtures empathy and emotional awareness by encouraging students to cherish friendships and reflect on positive memories.
Audience
1st Grade Group
Time
25 minutes
Approach
Art project integrated with guided discussion.
Materials
The Magic of Memories Plan, Memory Jar Craft (activity), and Memory Sharing Circle (discussion)
Prep
Preparation
5 minutes
- Review the The Magic of Memories Plan to understand activity flow.
- Gather all required materials for the Memory Jar Craft.
- Arrange the classroom to facilitate group discussion during the Memory Sharing Circle.
Step 1
Introduction
5 minutes
- Welcome students and introduce the idea of memory jars.
- Explain that they will create jars to keep special memories of a friend they miss.
- Emphasize the value of friendship and sharing positive memories.
Step 2
Memory Jar Craft Activity
15 minutes
- Guide students through decorating their memory jars.
- Allow time for students to write or draw a memory about the friend they miss on paper or craft material.
- Circulate and provide support while students focus on their designs.
Step 3
Memory Sharing Circle
5 minutes
- Have students gather in a circle to share one memory if they feel comfortable.
- Facilitate a discussion on the importance of cherishing memories and maintaining friendships.
- Conclude with positive reinforcement and encouragement for future sharing.
Activity
Memory Jar Craft
Activity Overview
In this activity, students will create and decorate memory jars to capture special memories of a friend they miss. This engaging craft encourages personal expression and creativity while emphasizing the importance of cherishing friendships.
Objectives
- Encourage creativity through art and design.
- Foster emotional expression by reflecting on special memories of friends.
- Develop fine motor skills with decorating and thoughtful drawing or writing.
Materials Needed
- A jar for each student (could be a recycled container).
- Craft supplies: stickers, markers, colored paper, glue, ribbons, etc.
- Paper and crayons for writing or drawing memories.
Activity Instructions
-
Introduction (2 minutes):
- Briefly explain the purpose of the memory jar craft. Emphasize that the jar will hold special memories of a friend they miss.
- Share a simple example: "This jar is like a treasure chest full of happy moments with people we care about."
-
Decorating the Jar (8 minutes):
- Hand out jars and art supplies to the students.
- Encourage students to decorate their jar using stickers, drawings, or any other materials available.
-
Capturing Memories (5 minutes):
- Provide each student with a small piece of paper. Ask students to either write a memory or draw a small picture that reminds them of a friend they miss.
- Provide each student with a small piece of paper. Ask students to either write a memory or draw a small picture that reminds them of a friend they miss.
-
Sharing and Reflection (5 minutes):
- Invite students to share their memory with the group if they feel comfortable.
- Discuss how each memory is unique and why it’s important to remember the good times with friends.
Follow-Up Points
- Ask students how they felt while creating their memory jars.
- Encourage them to add more memories over time to their jars.
- Reflect on the importance of keeping cherished memories close even when a friend is not around.
Enjoy the creative process and the warm memories that each jar holds!
Discussion
Memory Sharing Circle Discussion
Overview
This discussion is a safe and caring space where students can share memories of a friend they miss. It helps them understand the importance of friendships and how every memory is a treasure. This guided circle will encourage students to express their feelings, listen to others, and learn from each other.
Guidelines
- Respect and Kindness: Everyone's memory is special. Listen carefully and speak kindly.
- Participation: Share only what you feel comfortable sharing. Listening is just as important as speaking.
- Support: If you feel shy or emotional, that's okay. We are here for each other.
Discussion Prompts
- What is one special memory you have of a friend?
- Encourage students to describe a fun or kind moment they remember, such as playing a game or sharing a laugh. - How did this memory make you feel?
- Ask the students to describe the emotions they felt during that moment, such as happiness, love, or excitement. - What did you learn from your friend during that time?
- Guide them to think about lessons like sharing, caring, or being kind.
Follow-Up Points
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Reflection: Invite students to explain why it is important to keep these memories and how they can cheer us up when we feel lonely.
-
Creative Sharing: If students feel comfortable, they can also share a drawing or a small craft that represents their memory.
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Encouragement: Remind everyone that each memory shared makes our class circle stronger and more connected.
Conclusion
End the discussion by thanking each student for their bravery in sharing and for listening so carefully to their friends. Emphasize that the magic of our memories holds the power to brighten our days and remind us how important it is to care for one another.
