Lesson Plan

Mind Detective Lesson Plan

Students will learn to identify common cognitive distortions and spot unhelpful thoughts using detective-themed activities, then reflect and reframe their own thoughts to improve emotional regulation.

Identifying and challenging cognitive distortions helps students build self-awareness, reduce emotional distress, and develop healthy coping strategies. This foundational skill supports emotional regulation and resilience.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Prepare Materials

5 minutes

Step 1

Introduction to Thought Detective

5 minutes

Step 2

Identify Common Cognitive Distortions

10 minutes

Step 3

Personal Thought Tracking

7 minutes

Step 4

Challenge and Reframe Thoughts

8 minutes

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Slide Deck

Mind Detective

Session Objectives

Today's Detective Work

Introduction to Thought Detective

What Are Cognitive Distortions?

Three Common Distortions

Spot the Distortion

Personal Thought Tracking

Challenge & Reframe Thoughts

Great Detective Work!

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Worksheet

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Activity

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Reading

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Mind Detective

Ashley Angel

Tier 3
For Schools
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