The Science of Stress

Courtenay Labson

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

The Science of Stress

Understand stress responses

This lesson introduces 6th grade students to the science of stress, focusing on both physiological and psychological aspects. Students will learn how the body responds to stress and explore strategies to manage these responses effectively. Understanding stress is crucial for students as it helps them recognize their own stressors and develop coping mechanisms, promoting better mental health and well-being.

Audience

6th Grade Students

Time

1 hour

Approach

Understand stress responses

Materials

Whiteboard and markers, Projector and screen, Discussion Questions, Stress Response Worksheet, Stress Management Quiz, and Answer Key

Step 1

Introduction to Stress

10 mins

Begin with a brief discussion on what stress is and ask students to share examples of when they feel stressed.
Explain the importance of understanding stress and how it affects both the mind and body.

Step 2

Physiological Aspects of Stress

15 mins

Use a projector to display images or diagrams of the body's stress response (e.g., fight or flight response).
Discuss how stress affects different body systems, such as the nervous and endocrine systems.
Encourage students to ask questions and share their thoughts.

Step 3

Psychological Aspects of Stress

10 mins

Discuss how stress can impact emotions and behavior.
Introduce common psychological responses to stress, such as anxiety and irritability.
Engage students in a brief discussion about how they feel when stressed.

Step 4

Strategies to Manage Stress

15 mins

Introduce various stress management techniques, such as deep breathing, exercise, and time management.
Conduct a short guided breathing exercise with the class.
Encourage students to share their own stress-relief strategies.

Step 5

Closure and Reflection

10 mins

Distribute the Stress Management Quiz to assess understanding.
Review key points from the lesson and answer any remaining questions.
Encourage students to reflect on what they learned and how they can apply it to their lives.

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Discussion

Discussion Questions

A set of questions to facilitate discussion on stress and its effects.

What are some common situations that cause stress?

Encourage students to think about both school-related and personal situations.

How does your body feel when you are stressed?

Guide students to consider physical sensations like increased heart rate or sweating.

What are some ways you can manage stress effectively?

Prompt students to think about techniques like deep breathing, talking to someone, or taking a break.

Worksheet

Stress Response Worksheet

A worksheet to help students identify and understand their stress responses.

List three physical signs of stress you have experienced.

Think about changes in your body when you feel stressed.

Describe a time when you felt stressed and how you handled it.

Consider what happened and what you did to feel better.

Quiz

Stress Management Quiz

Answer Key

The answer key for the Stress Management Quiz.

Which of the following is a healthy way to manage stress?

Deep breathing
Deep breathing is a technique that helps calm the mind and body.

What is the 'fight or flight' response?

A stress response
The 'fight or flight' response is the body's automatic reaction to perceived danger or stress.