Lesson Plan

Facing School Fears Lesson Plan

Help 8th graders overcome school avoidance by identifying feelings, triggers, and coping strategies across four 15-minute sessions.

Addressing school avoidance is critical for improving attendance and mental well-being, enabling students to engage confidently in academic and social environments.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Review Materials and Session Outlines

15 minutes

Step 1

Session 1: Introduction & Emotional Expression

15 minutes

Step 2

Session 2: Identifying Triggers

15 minutes

Step 3

Session 3: Developing Coping Strategies

15 minutes

Step 4

Session 4: Building Confidence & Future Planning

15 minutes

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Slide Deck

Session 1: Introduction & Emotional Expression

Begin with setting a welcoming and supportive tone. Remind students that this is a confidential space and encourage them to share their feelings about school using the Feelings Chart. Emphasize that all feelings are valid and the session is about understanding what they experience when thinking about school.

Session 2: Identifying Triggers

Review the previous session's feedback briefly. Guide the discussion on specific aspects of school that are triggering anxiety. The Whiteboard should be ready for brainstorming. Remind the students that identifying triggers is a step towards finding solutions, and encourage openness when discussing their thoughts.

Session 3: Developing Coping Strategies

Revisit the triggers identified in Session 2. Facilitate a discussion on potential ways to cope with each trigger. Help students brainstorm practical strategies that they can use within the school setting. Counsel students to share their own ideas and record them on the worksheet.

Session 4: Building Confidence & Future Planning

Start with a brief recap of the coping strategies developed in the previous session. Engage the students with role-playing or group discussions to plan how they might face real school scenarios using these strategies. Conclude with affirmations to boost their confidence and encourage setting personal goals.

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Worksheet

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Worksheet

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Facing School Fears

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