Lesson Plan

Calm Test Moments

By session end, the student will use a brief mindful breathing exercise, employ question-clarifying prompts, and assemble a personalized anxiety toolkit to manage test stress.

Test anxiety can block understanding and effort. Equipping the student with calming tools and clarity strategies builds confidence and engagement during assessments.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Gather Materials

5 minutes

Step 1

Warm-Up Conversation

2 minutes

Step 2

Guided Mindful Breathing

3 minutes

Step 3

Question-Clarification Practice

4 minutes

Step 4

Anxiety Toolkit Creation

4 minutes

Step 5

Cool-Down & Reflection

2 minutes

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Slide Deck

Calm Test Moments

Welcome the student warmly and set a supportive tone. Ask: “How are you feeling about tests today?” Briefly explain the session’s purpose: learning quick strategies to stay calm and confident.

Today’s Objectives

Review each objective and check for understanding. Encourage the student to ask questions if anything isn’t clear.

1. Guided Mindful Breathing

Introduce the [Mindful Breathing Script](#mindful-breathing-script). Model one full breath cycle: inhale 4 sec, hold 2 sec, exhale 6 sec. Then set a timer for two more cycles and coach the student through them. Ask afterward how they feel.

2. Clarifying Test Questions

Show the [Question-Clarification Prompt Cards](#question-clarification-prompt-cards). Read a short sample question and walk through prompts like “What is it asking me to do?” and “Can I put this in my own words?” Guide until the student can restate the question.

3. Create Your Anxiety Toolkit

Hand out the [Anxiety Toolkit Template](#anxiety-toolkit-template). Brainstorm 2–3 calming strategies (e.g., squeeze a stress ball, say a positive phrase). Let the student add doodles or reminders that feel encouraging. Discuss when they might use each tool during a test.

4. Reflection & Next Steps

Ask the student to rate their stress now versus at the start. Have them explain aloud which breathing, clarification, and toolkit items they’ll use. Reinforce that they can pause, breathe, clarify, and reach for their toolkit anytime.

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Worksheet

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Calm Test Moments

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Claudia Olivares

Tier 3
For Schools
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