Opposite Action Adventure

Christina Wong

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Opposite Action Adventure

Teaching opposite action (DBT)

In this lesson, students will learn about the concept of 'opposite action' from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) through a fun and interactive activity. This lesson is important as it helps students understand how to manage their emotions and reactions in a healthy way, promoting emotional regulation and resilience. By engaging in a project-based learning activity, students will explore real-life scenarios where they can apply opposite action, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Audience

3rd grade students

Time

15 minutes

Approach

Project-Based Learning, Trauma-Informed Teaching

Materials

Scenario Cards, and Discussion Questions

Step 1

Introduction

2 minutes

Briefly introduce the concept of 'opposite action' as a way to manage emotions by doing the opposite of what you feel like doing when emotions are intense.
Explain that this can help us make better decisions and feel better in the long run.

Step 2

Activity Setup

3 minutes

Distribute scenario cards to each student. Each card contains a situation where opposite action could be applied.
Explain that students will work individually to think about their natural reactions and possible opposite actions.

Step 3

Individual Activity

7 minutes

Instruct each student to read their scenario and write down what their natural reaction might be and what an opposite action could look like.
Encourage students to think creatively and consider the benefits of choosing an opposite action.

Step 4

Closure

3 minutes

Ask a few students to share one scenario and the opposite action they considered.
Facilitate a brief discussion on how using opposite action can help in real-life situations.

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Worksheet

Scenario Cards

These cards contain scenarios for students to discuss and apply the concept of opposite action.

You feel angry because your friend took your toy. What is your natural reaction? What could be an opposite action?

You are nervous about speaking in front of the class. What is your natural reaction? What could be an opposite action?

You feel sad because you lost a game. What is your natural reaction? What could be an opposite action?

Discussion

Discussion Questions

These questions guide the discussion on opposite action and its benefits.

What is opposite action and why is it useful?

Discuss how opposite action helps in managing emotions and making better decisions.

Can you think of a time when you used opposite action?

Encourage students to share personal experiences and reflect on the outcomes.

How can opposite action help us in school and at home?

Explore different scenarios where opposite action can be beneficial in daily life.