1. Divide the class into three groups and give each group an instruction slip. Ask groups to brainstorm the situations on the slips. Provide butcher paper, poster board or blank transparencies and markers on which groups will record their responses. Allow two minutes for brainstorming.

2. 2. DISCUSS POWERFUL FEELINGS. Have each group present their brainstormed lists (from Step One). Compare lists for insights and similarities.

3. CONCEPTS – Different people perceive situations in different ways. Many situations cause powerful feelings. These feelings create changes in the body. SKILL DEVELOPMENT – Stress is a common response to feelings of fear, anger and frustration. People can learn strategies to cope with stress.

4. 3. STUDENTS IDENTIFY COPING STRATEGIES. Have students complete the student page. Discuss the responses.

5. CONCEPTS – People react in different ways to stressful situations. Some reactions are passive, some are assertive, and some are aggressive. SKILL DEVELOPMENT – Assertive reactions are healthy ways to manage stress. Passive and aggressive responses may create additional stress. Each person can develop assertive coping strategies.

6. 4. STUDENTS OBSERVE STRESS REACTIONS IN THE MEDIA.

7. 5. DISCUSS STRESS REACTIONS IN THE MEDIA. After students have completed the assignment, divide class into groups of four or five to discuss it. Ask groups to look for patterns regarding: – Common feelings that are expressed in the media. – Whether passive, assertive or aggressive behavior is modeled. – What young people may learn from the media about how to deal with feelings.

8. 6. REFLECT, SUMMARIZE, AND DISCUSS. Discuss the groups' observation of media. Do the actors portray realistic situations that cause stress? Do the actors model assertive reactions? When passive and aggressive reactions are modeled, are the outcomes realistically portrayed? What message does the media give us about handling feelings?