Welcome students and introduce today’s topic. Explain that by the end of this lesson, they’ll be able to spot stress signs, recognize their own triggers, and try out real coping tools. Mention that we’ll follow a 30-minute plan with interactive activities.

Write “Stress” on the board. Ask: “What does stress mean to you?” Capture a few student ideas. Then display the [Stress Signs Poster](#stress-signs-poster). Highlight key physical (racing heart, tense muscles) and emotional (irritability, worry) signs.

Distribute the [Stress Triggers Worksheet](#stress-triggers-worksheet). Instruct students to list 3–5 things that make them feel stressed. After 5 minutes, invite 2–3 volunteers to share one trigger each. Note shared themes on the board.

Refer back to the [Stress Signs Poster](#stress-signs-poster). Pair students up and ask them to discuss which sign might follow each of their triggers. After 3 minutes, ask a few pairs to share one example.

Introduce the [Coping Strategies Cards](#coping-strategies-cards). Quickly model deep breathing, positive self-talk, and quick stretches. Set a timer: 2 minutes per strategy. Circulate to support proper technique and encourage students to note which feels best.

Ask students to pick one coping strategy they’ll use next time they feel stressed. Hand out exit tickets and instruct students to write their chosen strategy and one trigger they’ll monitor. Collect tickets as they exit.