Anxiety Busters
Understand and Manage Anxiety
This lesson focuses on helping 8th-grade students understand and manage anxiety through interactive and experiential learning strategies. Students will participate in a discussion to share their experiences and learn from each other, followed by a worksheet activity that provides practical exercises to manage anxiety. This lesson is important as it equips students with tools to handle stress, promoting mental well-being and academic success.
Experiential Learning, Active Learning, Collaborative Learning, Inquiry-Based Learning, Blended Learning
Discussion Questions, Anxiety Reduction Worksheet, Pens, Paper, and Meditation Video
- Welcome students and introduce the topic of anxiety.
- Explain the importance of understanding and managing anxiety, especially during middle school.
- Outline the activities for the session: a discussion followed by a worksheet activity.
- Facilitate a discussion using the provided questions.
- Encourage students to share their thoughts and experiences with anxiety.
- Guide the conversation to highlight common triggers and coping mechanisms.
- Introduce specific coping strategies such as deep breathing, journaling, and physical activity.
Step 3
Mindfulness Meditation
5 mins
- Introduce the concept of mindfulness meditation.
- Play the Meditation Video to guide students through a short mindfulness exercise.
- Encourage students to focus on their breathing and the present moment.
Step 4
Worksheet Activity
5 mins
- Distribute the 'Anxiety Reduction Worksheet' to each student.
- Instruct students to complete the exercises individually, focusing on identifying personal anxiety triggers and exploring coping strategies.
- Circulate the room to provide support and answer any questions.
- Reconvene as a group and invite students to share any insights or strategies they found helpful.
- Summarize key points from the discussion and worksheet.
- Encourage students to practice these strategies regularly and seek support if needed.
