Connect students directly to the concept in a personal way. Capture students' attention by initiating a group problem-solving activity before delivery of instruction. Begin with a situation that is familiar to students and builds on what they already know. Construct a learning experience that allows diverse and personal student responses. Facilitate the work of cooperative teams of students.

Journal: small, seemingly insignificant things in your life that make you smile.

Objective: Students will begin to identify the simple things in their lives that reverberate with meaning.

Activity: In journals, students will make an exhaustive list of the small, seemingly insignificant things in their lives that make them smile. Students will share lists in groups, noting similarities, if any.

Assessment: Completion of task, level of group involvement