The Science of Happiness
Lesson Objectives
By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:
- Use a range of abstract nouns related to happiness and well-being
- Paraphrase key ideas from scientific research on happiness
- Compare cultural definitions and attitudes toward happiness
- Express personal reflections through a “happiness journal” exercise
Level: C1
Length: 90 minutes
Focus: Emotions & Abstract Nouns | Paraphrasing | Cultural Comparison
Skills: Reading, Speaking, Writing, Vocabulary, Critical Thinking
Warm-Up (10 min) – What Is Happiness?
Task: In pairs or small groups, students discuss:
- How would you define happiness?
- Is happiness a goal, a feeling, or a habit?
- What makes you happy on an average day?
- Write key abstract nouns on the board as they emerge (e.g. contentment, fulfillment, well-being, optimism, purpose).
Vocabulary Focus (10 min) – Emotions & Abstract Nouns
Task: Match abstract nouns with definitions or synonyms.
Examples:
- Fulfillment – A feeling of satisfaction from achieving something meaningful
- Gratitude – The quality of being thankful
- Euphoria – A feeling of intense excitement or joy
- Serenity – The state of being calm and peaceful
Ask:
- Which of these are short-term emotions? Which are long-term states?
- Are any of these valued more in your culture?
Reading & Paraphrasing (25 min) – The Science of Happiness
Task: Read a short article (or an adapted one-pager) titled “The Science of Happiness.” Topics include:
- What neuroscience says about joy and satisfaction
- Cultural interpretations of happiness (e.g., individualism vs collectivism)
- Research studies (e.g., money and happiness, gratitude journaling)
Comprehension + Paraphrasing Questions:
- What factors contribute most to long-term happiness, according to the text?
- Paraphrase the following sentence:
“Studies show that after a certain income level, increases in money do not significantly boost emotional well-being.” - How does the article define “meaningful happiness”?
- What cultural difference was observed in Study X? (Adapt based on article)
Students paraphrase in small groups, then share their versions aloud.
Discussion (15 min) – Culture & Happiness
Task: Use guiding prompts:
- In your country, what are people taught about happiness?
- Is happiness more personal or social?
- Are people encouraged to express emotions openly?
Optional: Show an infographic or short video comparing World Happiness Rankings.
Creative Writing (20 min) – Start a Happiness Journal
Task: Students write 2–3 short entries for a “Happiness Journal.” Prompt them to include:
- A moment this week that brought joy
- Something they’re grateful for
- One habit they could try to boost their happiness
Optional extension:
- Create a mini-journal with five days of prompts
- Share an excerpt with the class (voluntary)
Wrap-Up and Homework (10 min)
Review:
- What new vocabulary did you learn today?
- What surprised you about the science or cultural side of happiness?
- Would you recommend happiness journaling to others?
Instructions:
Read each statement and select how much you agree with it. Be honest—there are no right or wrong answers.
For each question, choose:
1 = Strongly Disagree
2 = Disagree
3 = Neutral
4 = Agree
5 = Strongly Agree
Happiness Questionnaire
Vocabulary: Abstract Nouns & Emotions
Match the words with their definitions.
- Fulfillment_____
- Gratitude_____
- Euphoria_____
- Serenity_____
- Contentment_____
- Optimism_____
- Purpose_____
- Well-being_____
A calm and peaceful state
B. The state of being happy, healthy, or successful
C. A strong belief that good things will happen
D. Intense excitement and happiness
E. The state of being satisfied with life
F. Feeling thankful and appreciative
G. A deep feeling of satisfaction from meaningful goals
H. A sense that your life has meaning or direction
Reading: The Science of Happiness
Read the short article below and complete the tasks that follow.
The Science of Happiness
What makes us truly happy? Scientists have spent decades studying how emotions affect the brain and behavior. While happiness may seem personal and hard to define, research has uncovered some clear patterns.
Long-term happiness is not just about pleasure—it’s closely linked to meaning, relationships, and gratitude. Studies show that people who feel connected to others, engage in purposeful activities, and regularly express appreciation tend to report higher life satisfaction.
Interestingly, once basic financial needs are met, additional wealth has little effect on emotional well-being. A study from Princeton University found that earning beyond $75,000 per year did not significantly increase happiness.
Culture also shapes how happiness is experienced. In the U.S. and much of Western Europe, happiness is often defined in terms of individual success and personal joy. In many Asian cultures, happiness is linked more closely to harmony and family ties.
Other studies suggest that habits like keeping a gratitude journal, spending time in nature, and helping others can increase long-term happiness. These activities activate parts of the brain related to reward and connection.
Comprehension Questions
Answer in full sentences.
- According to the article, what are the main contributors to long-term happiness?
- What does the Princeton study suggest about the relationship between income and happiness?
- How do cultural views on happiness differ, based on the text?
- What everyday habits can improve happiness?
Paraphrasing Practice
Paraphrase the sentence in your own words:
“Studies show that after a certain income level, increases in money do not significantly boost emotional well-being.”
Cultural Comparison: Class Discussion
Discuss or write brief notes:
- In your culture, how do people usually define happiness?
- Do people openly express joy and gratitude?
- Are relationships or achievements more important for happiness?
Writing: Happiness Journal Entry
Write a journal-style entry (5–6 sentences) answering the following questions:
- What is something small that made you happy this week?
- What are you grateful for today?
- What is one habit you could try to increase your happiness?
Example:
Today I felt happy when I had lunch with a friend I hadn’t seen in a long time. I’m grateful for having time to relax. I think going for a walk in the park every morning could improve my mood and help me stay focused.
Homework Options:
- Continue a 5-day happiness journal
- Write a blog post: “What Happiness Means in My Culture” (250 words)
- Research and summarize one scientific study about happiness