Lesson Plan

Turning Frowns Upside Down Plan

Students learn to recognize negative thoughts and convert them to positive, enhancing emotional resilience in a fun and interactive session.

Developing a positive mindset at an early age supports mental health, helps build resilience, and empowers students with valuable life skills.

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Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Preparation

10 minutes

Step 1

Introduction and Discussion

5 minutes

Step 2

Activity: Frowns to Smiles

15 minutes

Step 3

Reflection and Closure

10 minutes

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Slide Deck

Turning Frowns Upside Down

Introduce the lesson by capturing the students' attention. Explain that today we'll learn how to change frowns (negative thoughts) into smiles (positive thoughts). Emphasize that everyone can learn to think positively.

What Are Negative & Positive Thoughts?

Discuss what negative and positive thoughts are. Provide simple examples, and ask students if they have ever felt sad or upset, then what made them feel better.

Recognizing Our Thoughts

Prompt students to think of examples. Use the board or a poster to list thoughts shared by the students. Encourage them to reflect on how these thoughts make them feel.

Understanding the Cognitive Triangle

Introduce the cognitive triangle and explain how our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are connected. Use simple language and examples: explain that our thoughts affect how we feel, which in turn affects our actions, and that changing our thoughts can lead to better feelings and actions.

This slide introduces a video that demonstrates positive self-talk. Play the video and encourage students to notice how positive words about themselves can help change their mood and outlook.

Activity Time: Frowns to Smiles

Explain the 'Frowns to Smiles' activity. Tell students to use the worksheet to draw or write about turning a frown into a smile. Reference the Positive Thought Cards to spark ideas.

Reflection & Closure

Conclude by inviting students to share their work. Summarize the lesson's key message: a positive thought can change the entire day. Encourage use of the Mindset Reflection Journal at home.

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Worksheet

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Activity

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Journal

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Turning Frowns Upside Down

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