Learners will be able to:
1.  Define "gratitude."
2.  Describe details from a story they read aloud and listened to in class.
3.  Identify 10 people or things that make them feel "grateful."
4.  Trace and cut out 10 "hands" and "tree" using the pattern provided before class.
5.  Write words that make them feel grateful on the "hand leaves."
6.  Use glue or glue stick to attach "tree" to the white paper.
7.  Use glue or glue stick to attach their "hand leaves" to the tree.
8.  Show-and-tell individual "gratitude trees" and share aloud words they placed on their trees.

Thanksgiving Holiday Suggestions:
1.  The poster can be used as a door or house decoration.
2.  Learners can trace their own hands to create "hand leaves."
3.  Individual "leaves" can be distributed to guests before the meal.  Invite everyone to write down and share aloud something that makes them feel grateful.  "Leaves" can be collected in a basket and placed in the center of the table.
4.  Children can use the "hand leaves" pattern to create name tags at each place setting before a meal.  

I am an engaging, interactive teacher who uses fun, hands-on activities to learn new concepts and practice new skills.  I incorporate the creative arts into instructional experiences.  I design activities that appeal to learners’ unique learning styles.  I encourage discussion and offer opportunities for students to share their experiences and expertise with one another. 

My doctoral degree is in education. My teaching certifications include elementary education (K-8) as well as secondary (grades 7-12) communication arts, English, speech and theater, and science education. I have more than 30 years of teaching experience in traditional and online classrooms in rural, urban, and suburban schools.  As a student teaching supervisor, I equipped new teachers with creative interactive strategies I use as an instructor.

As a TED speaker and school assembly speaker, seasoned teacher, youth mental health consultant, I equip youth and adults with skills to talk about tough topics like communication, bullying, and conflict resolution at school assemblies and conferences throughout the country.  I teach communication skills that help youth and adults strengthen relationships, set appropriate boundaries, and resolve conflict.  

I empower youth with goal-setting strategies and peer leadership coaching. I equip teens and youth leadership teams with skills and tools to create powerful action plans with attainable goals.  I am the author of an award-winning personal goal-setting book, Dreams to Action Trailblazer's Guide. Visit www.DrJulieConnor.com for more information.

Homework Offered
The project will be completed in class.  Learners who do not complete the project can complete it for homework.
0 - 1 hours per week outside of class
Assessments Offered
Class discussion, thumbs up / thumbs down, brainstorming, read aloud sharing, step-by-step art project "teacher-learner check-ins" to monitor progress throughout the class, guided practice to check for understanding, independent writing practice, and "show-and-tell."
Grades Offered

* "The Gratitude Tree," a story by Dr. Julie Connor, Ed.D.
* "The Gratitude Tree" PowerPoint presentation