"Teflon and Magnet" (Or Teflon and Velcro) refers to the brain's negativity bias- an evolutionary throwback that means our brains are hardwired to remember negative experiences and quickly forget positive experiences. Students will be provided examples of how this once was meant to keep us alive (e.g. as a cave-caveman it was important to remember where a lion once tried to attack you, etc.) but is now more just a source of anxiety, irritability and sadness.
Research has determined that it takes 5 positive interactions to make up for 1 negative interaction in a relationship. The same is true for self-talk. This means we need a conscious, active process fortaking in the positive- something like mindfulness- in order to make up for our brains negative hard wiring.
What will students learn during this lesson?
Students will hear the information listed above and discuss how we often use negative self-talk throughout our days. Examples might include "I can't do this!" or "This is too hard!".
Students will get a chance to brainstorm positives for each negative read aloud.
Students will be asked to complete an Exit Ticket that defines a negative thought and 5 positive thoughts to combat this negative.
Students will then engage in a wrap up mindfulness activity utilizing Headspace. com (Stay Positive).