Lesson Plan
Losing Isn’t Losing
Students will identify feelings associated with losing games and practice two positive coping strategies—taking deep breaths and congratulating the winner—to build resilience and sportsmanship.
Learning to handle losing helps 2nd graders develop emotional regulation, empathy, and a growth mindset, turning setbacks into growth opportunities.
Audience
Time
Approach
Materials
Prep
Prepare Lesson Materials
10 minutes
Step 1
Introduction and Warm-Up
5 minutes
Step 2
Explore Scenarios
10 minutes
Step 3
Teaching Coping Strategies
5 minutes
Step 4
Role-Play Practice
5 minutes
Step 5
Reflection and Closing
5 minutes
Lesson Plan
Losing Like a Pro Plan
Students will identify emotions they feel when losing a game, practice two positive coping strategies—taking deep breaths and congratulating the winner—and reflect on how to apply these strategies next time to build resilience and sportsmanship.
Handling disappointment from losing helps 2nd graders develop emotional regulation, empathy, and a growth mindset. Teaching coping strategies and sportsmanship supports SEL growth and encourages positive team interactions.
Audience
Time
Approach
Materials
Prep
Prepare Lesson Materials
10 minutes
Step 1
Introduction and Warm-Up
5 minutes
Step 2
Explore Scenarios
10 minutes
Step 3
Teaching Coping Strategies
5 minutes
Step 4
Role-Play Practice
5 minutes
Step 5
Reflection and Closing
5 minutes
Slide Deck
Losing Like a Pro
Have You Ever Lost a Game?
Recognizing Our Feelings
Losing Scenarios
Coping Strategies
Role-Play Practice
Reflection
Share and Celebrate
Wrap Up
Worksheet
Activity
Activity
Activity
Activity
Cool Down
