The One Word Project is an inspiring way to encourage students to focus on personal growth and set meaningful intentions for the year. By selecting a single word that represents their goals, values, or aspirations, students gain clarity and motivation to make the school year impactful. I recommend starting any of these activities with a read aloud of the book One Word for Kids by Jon Gordon. You can find the book HERE.
But what happens after they choose their word? To truly integrate this concept into the classroom, consider adding engaging extension activities that bring the One Word Project to life. Here are five creative and purposeful ways to extend this activity: One Word Chalk Art & Reflective Wrting, 3D Paper Word Display, One Word Goal Tracker, and One Word Reflection Journal, and One Word bracelets.
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1. One Word Chalk Art & Reflective Writing
Students start with a brainstorming outline to gather their thoughts and ideas about their one word for the year. I have a template for this, or you can use your own. Next, they create a reflective writing piece, expressing their chosen word's significance and their goals for the year.
I like to allow the students to be creative with the way they write their one word. I show them different decorative writing styles, and how they can add color and embellishments to their letters.
In addition to the writing piece, there is also a chalk art component. I created a step-by-step guide for drawing a lightbulb, and using the chalk to give it a glowing effect. They LOVE this part!
Recommended Materials:
One Word for Kids by Jon Gordon
Pencils (I recommend students write in pencil first)
Flair Pens (for tracing over the pencil writing)
2. Create a 3D Paper Word Display
Bring students' words to life with a 3D paper display! Provide templates or guide students to create their word using colorful paper, cardstock, or even recycled materials. This activity allows them to showcase their creativity while keeping their word in constant view as a daily reminder.
I created this 3D template, if you want to save time and use it! Student directions and printable templates are ready to go!
Have students keep these on their desk or table as a visual reminder of their word. You could also arrange these creations on a dedicated bulletin board, shelf, or even hanging mobiles to make your classroom a vibrant space filled with intention and inspiration.
2. Track Progress with the One Word Goal Tracker
Help students stay accountable to their One Word by using a goal tracker. This interactive tool encourages them to set actionable steps and monitor their progress throughout the year. I created these One Word Goal Setting & Tracking sheets in a weekly and monthly format. Figure out what works best with your schedule.
Why It’s Effective: Students can visually see how they’re progressing, which builds confidence and fosters a growth mindset.
Reward System: Pair the tracker with a reward system that celebrates milestones—such as stickers, certificates, or “achievement badges” for completing goals or demonstrating their word in action.
Home Connection: Let parents know about this project, and encourage them to make goals with their children at home as well. Here’s a pre-made Home Connection letter.
3. Dive Deeper with a One Word Reflection Journal
Reflection is a powerful tool for personal growth. A One Word Reflection Journal gives students a private space to document their thoughts, challenges, and successes throughout the year.
What to Include: Journals can feature prompts such as “How did I live out my word this week?” or “What challenges have I faced, and how did I overcome them?”
Frequency: Encourage students to write in their journals weekly or monthly, making reflection a regular part of their routine.
Save time, and use my pre-made journal prompts and templates! Find them HERE, or on TPT HERE.
4. Create One Word Bracelets
Making One Word bracelets is a creative and tactile extension activity that reinforces the core idea of the One Word project—choosing a guiding word to inspire personal growth or intention throughout the year. By designing and wearing their bracelets, students create a constant, personal reminder of their chosen word, blending creativity, reflection, and self-expression.
Steps for Making One Word Bracelets
Materials Needed:
Letter beads (to spell out the chosen word)
Colorful beads (for accents)
Elastic string or cord (stretchable and easy to wear)
Scissors
Crimp beads or small knots for securing ends (optional but recommended)
Instructions:
Prepare the Materials:
Distribute a selection of letter beads, colorful beads, and elastic strings to each participant. I like using these kits with everything you need.
Encourage them to think about the colors and designs that resonate with their chosen word.
Plan the Design:
Lay out the beads in the desired order before stringing them.
Place the letter beads spelling the One Word in the center, surrounded by accent beads.
String the Beads:
Start threading beads onto the elastic string, ensuring the letters are in the correct order.
Add colorful beads on each side to complete the design.
Measure and Adjust:
Wrap the bracelet around the wrist to check the fit. Adjust by adding or removing beads if necessary.
Secure the Bracelet:
Tie a strong knot at the end of the string to secure the beads in place.
For added durability, use a crimp bead or dab of glue on the knot.
Share and Reflect:
Once everyone has completed their bracelet, take time to share the designs and meanings behind the chosen words.
Why These Extensions Work
These activities do more than just keep students engaged—they deepen the impact of the One Word Project by encouraging creativity, accountability, and reflection. The 3D displays make their word tangible, the goal tracker fosters consistent progress, and the reflection journal builds emotional and intellectual connections to their intentions.
By integrating these activities, you’re not just teaching students to set goals; you’re equipping them with lifelong skills for personal growth, perseverance, and self-awareness. Whether you’re starting the One Word Project for the first time or looking to enhance it, these extensions are a meaningful way to bring the concept to life in your classroom. Give them a try and watch your students thrive!
I recommend starting any of these projects with a read aloud of the picture book One Word for Kids by Jon Gordon. You can find that HERE. This will ignite thought-provoking conversations about the meaning behind this project, as well as some ideas for words.
Feel free to email me at Janis@LodgesLearning.com if you have any questions, or to share how you used this project with your students!
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