Facing Fears: Overcoming School Avoidance

Bob MacCurtain

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Facing Fears: Overcoming School Avoidance

Address school-related fears

This lesson helps students understand and address their fears related to attending school. Through group discussions and role-playing activities, students will learn coping strategies to manage anxiety and build resilience. This lesson is important as it empowers students to face their fears, promotes emotional well-being, and enhances their ability to attend school regularly.

Audience

Middle School Students

Time

45 mins

Approach

Address school-related fears

Materials

Discussion Questions, Role-Playing Scenarios, and Worksheet: Coping Strategies

Step 1

Introduction

5 mins

Welcome students and introduce the topic of school avoidance and anxiety.
Explain the importance of understanding and addressing these fears.

Step 2

Group Discussion

10 mins

Divide students into small groups.
Provide each group with discussion questions to explore their feelings about school.
Encourage students to share their thoughts and listen to others.

Step 3

Role-Playing Activity

15 mins

Assign each group a scenario related to school avoidance.
Have students role-play the scenario, focusing on identifying fears and practicing coping strategies.
Facilitate a brief discussion after each role-play to reflect on the experience.

Step 4

Worksheet Activity

10 mins

Distribute the 'Coping Strategies' worksheet.
Guide students to complete the worksheet individually, identifying personal fears and potential coping strategies.
Encourage students to share their strategies with a partner.

Step 5

Closure

5 mins

Recap the key points discussed in the lesson.
Encourage students to apply the coping strategies in real-life situations.
Thank students for their participation and openness.

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Discussion

Discussion Questions

A set of questions to facilitate group discussions on school-related fears and anxieties.

What are some common fears students have about attending school?

Encourage students to think about both academic and social aspects.

How do these fears affect your daily life and school attendance?

Guide students to reflect on personal experiences and share if comfortable.

What support do you think would help in overcoming these fears?

Discuss possible support systems like friends, teachers, or counselors.

Worksheet

Role-Playing Scenarios

Printable cards with scenarios for students to role-play, focusing on school avoidance and coping strategies.

Scenario 1: Feeling anxious about a big test and considering skipping school.

Scenario 2: Worried about fitting in with classmates and avoiding social situations.

Scenario 3: Fear of speaking in front of the class and thinking of staying home.

Scenario 4: Concerned about bullying and not wanting to attend school.

Worksheet

Coping Strategies

A worksheet to help students identify their fears and develop coping strategies.

List three fears you have about attending school.

Think about both academic and social fears.

What are some strategies you can use to cope with these fears?

Consider techniques like deep breathing, positive self-talk, or seeking support.

Who can you reach out to for support when feeling anxious about school?

Think about trusted adults or friends.