Brain Boost: Artful Strategies for Test Success

Jade Hodge

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Brain Boost: Artful Strategies for Test Success

Introduce students to the concept of brain health through artistic expression, helping them manage test stress and improve focus.

This lesson empowers students to utilize art as a tool for stress management and cognitive enhancement, which is crucial during high-pressure testing periods.

Audience

Middle School Students (Ages 11 & 15)

Time

1 Hour

Approach

Interactive, multimedia, and discussion-based session.

Materials

Brain Boost: Artful Strategies, and Getting Out of a Creative Rut Video

Prep

Lesson Preparation

10 Minutes

Review the overall lesson plan and structure.
Watch the Getting Out of a Creative Rut Video to familiarize yourself with its content.
Prepare warm-up and cool-down activities focusing on art-based stress relief.
Check classroom technology for video playback and interactive discussion tools.

Step 1

Warm-Up Activity

10 Minutes

Begin with a short art-based icebreaker: Ask students to doodle how they feel about upcoming tests.
Prompt students to share any past strategies that have helped them calm their nerves.

Step 2

Video Presentation

10 Minutes

Play the Getting Out of a Creative Rut Video to introduce the connection between art, creativity, and brain health.
Ask students to note any surprising tips or insights mentioned in the video.

Step 3

Facilitated Discussion

20 Minutes

Engage students in a discussion on how art can influence emotions and stress levels, especially before tests.
Use guiding questions: 'How does creativity help you manage stress?' and 'Can art be a strategy to boost focus when studying?'
Encourage students to connect ideas from the video and their own experiences.

Step 4

Cool-Down Activity

10 Minutes

Lead a mindful art exercise: Ask students to create a quick sketch or collage that represents a calming space or positive thought.
Invite a few volunteers to share their artwork and discuss how creating it made them feel.
Summarize key points about art's impact on brain health and stress management.

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Warm Up

Artful Icebreaker: Doodle Your Test Feelings

This warm-up is designed to spark creativity and self-expression as students begin the lesson. They will have the opportunity to translate their emotions about testing into art by doodling their feelings. This activity not only sets a relaxed tone for the session but also opens up a dialogue about how art can influence and regulate emotions.

Instructions for Students:

Take a blank sheet of paper or use your digital drawing tool.
Spend a few minutes doodling or drawing a representation of how you feel when you think about upcoming tests.
Don't worry about making a perfect drawing – focus on expressing your emotions.
After doodling, prepare to share your artwork with a partner or the class, explaining your drawing and the feelings behind it.

Reflection Prompt:

How did the process of drawing help you understand your emotions about tests?

Cool Down

Mindful Art Exercise: Sketch Your Calm

This cool-down activity is designed to help you consolidate what you've learned about using art to manage stress and boost focus. Through a reflective art exercise, you will have the opportunity to create a piece that represents your personal calming space or a positive thought that can help you in challenging times, like before tests.

Instructions for Students:

Take a blank sheet of paper or use a digital drawing tool.
Spend a few minutes creating a sketch or collage that portrays a place, object, or idea that brings you calm and positivity.
Remember, there's no right or wrong way to interpret your 'calm.' Focus on what makes you feel peaceful and grounded.

Reflection Prompt:

How did creating this art piece affect your state of mind?
What specific elements of your sketch or collage help you to feel calm and prepared for challenges?