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Conquering School Anxiety

Lesson Plan

Conquering School Anxiety

Increase attendance and reduce anxiety

This lesson aims to help students understand and manage their anxiety about attending school. Through a combination of inquiry-based and collaborative learning strategies, students will explore their feelings, learn coping mechanisms, and engage in activities that promote a positive school experience. This lesson is crucial for fostering a supportive environment that encourages regular attendance and reduces anxiety.

Audience

Students with school refusal and anxiety

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Inquiry-Based Learning, Collaborative Learning

Materials

Video: Anxiety Explained - SEL Sketches, Worksheet: Understanding My Anxiety, Reading: Coping with School Anxiety, Discussion: Sharing Our Feelings, and Activity: Circle of Control

Step 1

Introduction

5 mins

  • Begin with a brief introduction about the importance of attending school and acknowledging that it's normal to feel anxious sometimes.
  • Show the Anxiety Explained - SEL Sketches video to help students understand anxiety.

Step 2

Reading and Discussion

10 mins

  • Distribute the reading handout "Coping with School Anxiety."
  • Allow students a few minutes to read individually or in pairs.
  • Facilitate a discussion using the prepared questions to explore students' thoughts and feelings about school anxiety.

Step 3

Worksheet Activity

10 mins

  • Hand out the "Understanding My Anxiety" worksheet.
  • Guide students through the worksheet, encouraging them to reflect on their own experiences and identify triggers and coping strategies.
  • Provide support for ELL students by offering translations or simplified language as needed.

Step 4

Closure and Reflection

5 mins

  • Conduct the "Circle of Control" activity where students identify what they can and cannot control about their school experience.
  • Encourage students to share one thing they learned or a strategy they plan to use to manage their anxiety.
  • Conclude with a positive affirmation about their ability to overcome challenges.
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Discussion

Sharing Our Feelings

A discussion to help students express their feelings about school anxiety and learn from each other's experiences.

What makes you feel anxious about coming to school?

Encourage students to share specific situations or thoughts that trigger their anxiety.







How do you usually cope with these feelings?

Discuss different coping strategies students use and introduce new ones if needed.







What support do you think would help you feel more comfortable at school?

Explore ideas for support, such as talking to a teacher, using relaxation techniques, or having a buddy system.







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Worksheet

Understanding My Anxiety

This worksheet helps students identify their anxiety triggers and explore coping strategies.

List three things that make you feel anxious about school.

Think about specific situations or thoughts.







What are some ways you can calm yourself when you feel anxious?

Consider deep breathing, talking to someone, or using a stress ball.







Who can you talk to at school when you're feeling anxious?

Think about teachers, friends, or school counselors.







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Reading

Coping with School Anxiety

A reading handout that provides information and tips on managing school-related anxiety.

Coping with School Anxiety

Feeling anxious about school is common, but there are ways to manage these feelings. Here are some tips:

  • Talk to Someone: Share your feelings with a trusted adult or friend.
  • Practice Relaxation: Try deep breathing or visualization techniques.
  • Stay Organized: Keep track of assignments and prepare for school the night before.
  • Focus on Positives: Remember the things you enjoy about school, like friends or favorite subjects.
  • Seek Help: If anxiety feels overwhelming, reach out to a school counselor or teacher for support.
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