Understanding Mental Health

Curriculum Area and Level

Subject: English Language Arts (ELA)
Grade Level: 12
Curriculum Standard: Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for English Language Arts

• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.11-12.1: Cite strong and thorough textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.3: Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences using effective techniques, well-chosen details, and well-structured event sequences.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.11-12.1: Initiate and participate effectively in a range of collaborative discussions with diverse partners on topics and texts.

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Lesson Duration: 16 Minutes

Class Size: 1 Student

Lesson Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will:

1. Analyze how mental health is portrayed in literature and media.
2. Develop critical thinking by discussing the impact of societal narratives on mental health perceptions.
3. Express personal reflections through a brief creative writing exercise.

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Materials Needed

• A short excerpt from The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath
• A quote from a public figure discussing mental health (e.g., Simone Biles or John Green)
• Notebook/paper and pen

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Lesson Breakdown

Minute 1-3: Hook – Breaking the Stigma

• Ask: "What do you think when you hear the phrase 'mental health'?"
• Present the following quote (modify as needed based on current events):

  “Mental health is just as important as physical health.” – Unknown

• Quick Discussion: Why do you think mental health is often overlooked in society?
• Emphasize that literature often shapes our perspectives on mental health.

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Minute 4-7: Literature and Representation

• Inform the student that they will briefly explore how mental health is portrayed in literature.
• Read an excerpt from The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath (a novel exploring mental health struggles).
• Ask: "What emotions do you think the character is feeling?"
• Discussion Prompt: How do authors use language and imagery to depict mental health experiences?

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Minute 8-11: Media and Social Perception

• Present a quote or example from a modern public figure discussing mental health.
• Ask: "How does modern media influence our understanding of mental health?"
• Discuss how language (word choice, tone) affects stigma and understanding.
• Quick Debate: Do you think social media helps or harms mental health discussions? Why?

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Minute 12-14: Creative Writing Exercise

• Task: Write a short reflection or narrative from the perspective of someone struggling with mental health but hesitant to speak about it.
• Encourage vivid sensory details and emotional depth.

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Minute 15-16: Closing Reflection

• Ask: "What did you learn or realize about mental health from this lesson?"
• Brief discussion on how storytelling can create empathy and awareness.
• Encourage the student to continue exploring mental health themes in literature.

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Assessment & Follow-Up

• Formative Assessment: The student’s participation in discussions and writing activity will indicate understanding.
• Homework Extension (Optional): Write a short essay analyzing mental health in a book, film, or song of their choice.

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Teacher Notes

• Ensure a supportive and judgment-free space for discussion.
• Be mindful of personal experiences—allow the student to engage at their own comfort level.
• This lesson connects literature with real-world social issues, fostering critical thinking and emotional intelligence.