Lesson Plan

Coping Mechanisms Lesson Plan

Equip students with practical coping tools—mindfulness and creative expression—to manage stress and build resilience during high-pressure periods.

High schoolers face academic and social stressors that can impact well-being. This lesson provides actionable strategies to reduce anxiety, enhance emotional health, and foster self-awareness.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Teacher Preparation

15 minutes

Step 1

Introduction & Icebreaker

10 minutes

Step 2

Guided Mindfulness Exercise

10 minutes

Step 3

Group Discussion

10 minutes

Step 4

Creative Expression Activity

20 minutes

Step 5

Reflection & Closure

10 minutes

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Slide Deck

Coping Mechanisms for Stressful Times

Welcome students and introduce the lesson topic. Emphasize that today we will explore practical ways to manage stress during high-pressure times.

Today's Agenda

Review the agenda so students know what to expect. Keep the pace moving to stay on time.

Lesson Objectives

Explain each objective briefly. Connect objectives back to student experiences with stress.

Guided Mindfulness Exercise

Distribute the Guided Mindfulness Script handout. Lead the class through each step slowly, pausing for breaths and body awareness.

Understanding Emotions

Show the Emotion Wheel slide as a large image. Hand out printed Emotion Wheels. In pairs, have students identify feelings and coping strategies.

Creative Collage Activity

Explain the collage activity rules and model an example. Circulate to prompt deeper symbolism and support creativity.

Reflection & Next Steps

Distribute journals or paper. Give students 3–4 minutes to write, then invite volunteers. Reinforce that there’s no wrong answer.

Resources & Support

Close the lesson by summarizing key strategies. Remind students of on-campus and external support resources.

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Activity

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Coping Mechanisms for Stressful Times

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