Lesson Plan
Thought Detective Lesson Plan
Students will identify personal thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, then apply the cognitive triangle model to understand how thoughts influence emotions and actions.
Fostering self-awareness of thought patterns equips students with tools for emotional regulation, better decision-making, and improved mental well-being through an evidence-based CBT approach.
Audience
Time
Approach
Materials
Prep
Prepare Materials
10 minutes
Step 1
Warm-Up: Thought vs. Feeling Quick Draw
5 minutes
Step 2
Introduction to CBT & Cognitive Triangle
15 minutes
Step 3
Main Activity: Cognitive Triangle Construction
15 minutes
Step 4
Cool-Down: Reflection Exit Ticket
10 minutes
Slide Deck
Mapping Your Mind
What is CBT?
The Cognitive Triangle
Automatic Thoughts
Emotions & Behaviors
Example Triangle
Next Steps
Warm Up
Activity
Cool Down
