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Intrusive Thoughts Exploration

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Lesson Plan

Intrusive Thoughts Exploration

CBT examples of intrusive thoughts

This lesson introduces 4th graders to the concept of intrusive thoughts and how Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help manage them. Through experiential learning and collaborative activities, students will explore examples of intrusive thoughts and discuss strategies to cope with them. This lesson is important as it helps students understand their thoughts and emotions, promoting mental health awareness and emotional regulation.

Audience

4th graders

Time

30 mins

Approach

Experiential Learning, Collaborative Learning

Materials

Worksheet: Intrusive Thoughts Examples, Activity Instructions, and Scenario Cards

Step 1

Introduction

5 mins

  • Begin with a brief discussion on what thoughts are and how they can affect our feelings and actions.
  • Introduce the concept of intrusive thoughts as thoughts that pop into our minds unexpectedly and can sometimes be upsetting.

Step 2

Experiential Activity

10 mins

  • Divide students into small groups.
  • Provide each group with a scenario card depicting a common intrusive thought (e.g., 'What if I fail the test?').
  • Ask groups to discuss how the thought might make someone feel and what they could do to manage it.

Step 3

Collaborative Worksheet

10 mins

  • Distribute the 'Intrusive Thoughts Examples' worksheet.
  • Have students work in pairs to complete the worksheet, identifying intrusive thoughts and suggesting positive coping strategies.
  • Encourage students to share their ideas with the class.

Step 4

Closure

5 mins

  • Recap the key points about intrusive thoughts and CBT strategies.
  • Invite students to share one new thing they learned about managing thoughts.
  • Encourage students to practice these strategies in their daily lives.
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Worksheet

Intrusive Thoughts Examples

This worksheet helps students identify intrusive thoughts and brainstorm positive coping strategies. It encourages collaborative thinking and application of CBT techniques.

List an example of an intrusive thought you might have.

Think about a thought that suddenly pops into your mind and makes you feel worried.







What is a positive way to respond to this thought?

Consider how you can challenge the thought or distract yourself.







How might talking to someone help with intrusive thoughts?

Think about who you could talk to and what they might say to help.







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Reading

Activity Instructions

Instructions for the experiential activity where students explore intrusive thoughts through group discussion and scenario cards.

Activity Instructions

  1. Group Formation: Divide the class into small groups of 3-4 students.
  2. Scenario Cards: Provide each group with a scenario card depicting a common intrusive thought.
  3. Discussion: Ask groups to discuss the following:
    • How might this thought make someone feel?
    • What are some ways to manage or challenge this thought?
  4. Sharing: After discussions, invite groups to share their thoughts and strategies with the class.
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Worksheet

Scenario Cards

Printable cards depicting common intrusive thoughts for group discussion. These cards are designed to help students identify and discuss intrusive thoughts and potential coping strategies.




What if I fail the test?







What if my friends don't like me anymore?







What if I make a mistake in front of the class?







What if I forget my lines in the school play?







What if I can't find my parents after school?




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Intrusive Thoughts Exploration • Lenny Learning