Grades K-2
Grades 3-5
Grades 6-8
Art

Thank You, My Friends: Virtual Exchange

Invite students to complete a creative project that expresses gratitude to their partner class!

Activity Partner
Total time estimate:
60+ minutes
Activity Objectives
  • Students will identify reasons they have enjoyed connecting with their Empatico partner class, such as a special memory, something they learned from them, or their friendship and support
  • Then, students will complete a project to express gratitude to their partner class, and share their appreciation for each other during a live virtual exchange

This activity supports the development of the following social-emotional skills: social awareness and relationship skills.

Create

Ask students to think about why they have enjoyed connecting with your Empatico partner class. For example, students might think of a special memory, something they learned from your partner class, or how the experience made them feel.

Then, invite them to brainstorm a creative way of expressing gratitude toward your partner class. Students might:

Share

Facilitate a live virtual exchange with your Empatico partner class, and invite students to share their gratitude projects with each other. Encourage them to share reasons why they are thankful for each other, and describe a favorite memory or experience.

After, students might share what else they are grateful for, and other ways they express gratitude in their daily life.

Reflect

Guide students through a post-activity reflection by asking the following questions: 

  • How was the process of creating and sharing our gratitude projects? What did you try to express?
  • How did you feel when we shared our projects with each other? 
  • How does showing our appreciation for each other help strengthen our relationships?
  • Are there other people who you would like to express gratitude towards? How do you want to express your appreciation for them?
Did you finish this activity? We'd love your input.