Billy Joel's song "Pressure" launches a four-day study of stress; what it is, what causes it, and how stress impacts the body. Class members watch a presentation and short videos about effectively managing stress and then groups research and create a poster with tips for ways to manage the different types of stress teenagers face.

Concepts

social-emotional learning, stress management, relationships, relationship skills, anxiety, coping skills, emotions

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Instructional Ideas

• Display a list of support services available on campus and in the community, the mini-posters, the stress management list, and the key vocabulary on a stress management-themed wall in the classroom

Classroom Considerations

• Allow for extra prep time to gather and prepare the many materials needed for the lesson itemized on the supplies list
• Participants need access to computers with internet connections
• Requires copies of included documents

Pros

• The plan is carefully scaffolded and richly detailed
• Includes modification and accommodations for special needs and ELL learners
• A rubric for the poster is also included

Cons

• None