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Pause and Think: Mastering Self-Control

Lesson Plan

Pause and Think: Mastering Self-Control

Improve self-regulation skills

This lesson helps 5th-grade students understand and manage impulsivity by learning to pause and think before acting. Through a brief discussion, video, and a condensed activity, students will explore the concept of the 'upstairs' and 'downstairs' brain and practice strategies to regain control over their emotions. This lesson is crucial for developing self-regulation skills, which are essential for academic success and personal well-being.

Audience

5th Grade Students

Time

15 mins

Approach

Restorative Practices, Game-Based Learning, Active Learning

Materials

Discussion Questions, Activity Materials, Video: Anxiety Explained - SEL Sketches, and Exit Ticket

Step 1

Introduction and Video

5 mins

  • Briefly discuss impulsivity and introduce the concept of anxiety.
  • Show the video Anxiety Explained - SEL Sketches.
  • Ask students to note one strategy for managing anxiety.

Step 2

Activity: Quick Pause and Think

7 mins

  • Conduct a quick game where students practice pausing and thinking before acting.
  • Use one or two scenarios where students must decide the best course of action after a brief pause.

Step 3

Closure and Exit Ticket

3 mins

  • Summarize the key points of the lesson.
  • Distribute the exit ticket for students to reflect on what they've learned about managing impulsivity and anxiety.
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Discussion

Discussion on Impulsivity

A guided discussion to help students reflect on impulsivity and self-regulation.

What does impulsivity mean to you?

Encourage students to think about times they acted without thinking and the outcomes.







How can we use our 'upstairs brain' to make better decisions?

Discuss strategies like deep breathing and counting to ten.







Can you share a time when you paused before acting? What was the result?

Invite students to share personal stories and reflect on the benefits of pausing.







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Quiz

Exit Ticket: Managing Impulsivity

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