Calm Minds, Strong Hearts

Leanne Carbone

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Calm Minds, Strong Hearts

Decreasing Anxiety

This lesson aims to help 10th graders understand and manage anxiety through a combination of Trauma-Informed Teaching, Restorative Practices, and Project-Based Learning. By engaging in a reflective activity, participating in a guided discussion, and completing a worksheet, students will learn practical strategies to reduce anxiety and build emotional resilience. This lesson is important as it equips students with tools to handle stress, promoting mental well-being and academic success.

Audience

10th graders

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Trauma-Informed Teaching, Restorative Practices, Project-Based Learning

Materials

Worksheet: Anxiety Reflection, Discussion: Understanding Anxiety, and Activity: Breathing Exercise

Step 1

Introduction

5 mins

Briefly introduce the topic of anxiety and its impact on students' lives.
Explain the importance of understanding and managing anxiety for overall well-being.

Step 2

Breathing Exercise Activity

10 mins

Guide students through a simple breathing exercise to help them relax and focus.
Encourage students to notice how their body feels before and after the exercise.

Step 3

Discussion: Understanding Anxiety

10 mins

Facilitate a discussion using the provided questions to explore students' thoughts and feelings about anxiety.
Encourage students to share their experiences and coping strategies.

Step 4

Worksheet Completion

5 mins

Distribute the 'Anxiety Reflection' worksheet.
Allow students time to complete the worksheet, reflecting on their personal experiences and strategies for managing anxiety.

Step 5

Closure

5 mins

Summarize key points from the discussion and worksheet.
Encourage students to practice the breathing exercise regularly and apply learned strategies in their daily lives.

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Worksheet

Anxiety Reflection Worksheet

This worksheet helps students reflect on their experiences with anxiety and identify strategies to manage it.

Describe a situation where you felt anxious. What were the physical and emotional signs?

What strategies have you used in the past to manage anxiety? Were they effective?

List three new strategies you would like to try to reduce anxiety.

Discussion

Understanding Anxiety Discussion

A guided discussion to help students explore their understanding of anxiety and share coping strategies.

What does anxiety feel like to you?

Encourage students to describe both physical and emotional sensations.

How do you usually cope with anxiety?

Discuss various coping mechanisms and their effectiveness.

Why is it important to talk about anxiety?

Highlight the benefits of open communication and support.