Standard of Learning

6.3 The student will describe the connections between mental and physical development as they relate to adolescence. Key concepts/skills include:

1. the effects of stress;
2. respect for individual differences;
3. positive and negative responses to criticism;
4. the effects of peer pressure;
5. the effects of bullying;
6. issues related to body image and weight management.

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Understanding the Standard

The student will understand how stress affects adolescents.

Essential Knowledge and Skills

The student will:

• define stress.
• distinguish between eustress and distress. (eustress are the "good" stessors while distress are the "bad" stressors)
• recognize situations that are stressful for sixth graders.
• list healthy ways to relieve stress:
  • increase physical activity;
  • relax, take deep breaths, listen to soothing music, and think positive thoughts;
  • get plenty of sleep;
  • practice time management;
  • set priorities;
  • talk to someone; and
  • put things in perspective.

Sample Lessons

In the Mix: "Opening Your Heart To Your Grieving Teen"
Grade(s) 6-12
This lesson is designed to help both the grieving teen and the adult there to help them.  Although the adult helping throughout the process cannot bring back the loved one that has passed on, but they can help the teenager realize they have support through this difficult time.
http://www.pbs.org/inthemix/educators/lessons/death1/index.html
Free

LifeSkills Training
Grades: 6-8
Model substance abuse prevention and competency enhancement program focusing on the major social and psychological factors causing substance use and abuse. Teaches drug resistance skills, personal management skills, and general social skills. Includes self-image, self-improvement, decision-making, anger management, assertiveness, communication, media, and conflict resolution issues.
Contact: http://www.lifeskillstraining.com
Cost

Organizational Skills
Grade(s) K-12
Upon completion of this lesson students will understand how to become more organized and will display good time management techniques.  Additionally, students will be able to better handle stress and change.
http://www.daltonstate.edu/faculty/lsweenie/work_ethics/
Free

Project Towards No Tobacco Use (TNT)
Grades 5-10
Model program to prevent or reduce tobacco use in youth. Ten core and 2 booster lessons. Includes effective refusal and coping skills; effects of media and advertisers; methods to build self-esteem; and strategies for advocating no tobacco use.
Sponsor: Department of Preventive Medicine, USC
Contact: http://www.etr.org
Cost

Striking Out Stress: A “Gallery Walk” Activity
Grade(s) 6-12
A teacher-submitted lesson that interactively teaches about stress and how to cope with its effects.
http://www.educationworld.com/a_tsl/archives/02-1/lesson045.shtml
Free

Additional Instructional Resources

• Guidance Counselors
• Life Skills Training
• Managing Stress - http://www.healthteacher.com/lessonguides/default.asp
• Stress Management - http://stress.about.com

Assessment Ideas

The student will:

• brainstorm a list of potentially stressful situations for teenagers.
• role-play ways to handle stressful situations.
• discuss the positive and negative effects of stress.

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