Title: Understanding Mental Illness: Creating an Informative Brochure

Grade Level: 9th-12th grade

Subject: Psychology/Health

Objective: - Students will gain a deeper understanding of mental illness by researching and creating an informational brochure. - Students will develop collaboration and communication skills by working in pairs. - Students will learn to identify symptoms specific to a chosen mental illness and locate appropriate resources for mental health support.

Materials: - Computers with internet access - Research materials (books, articles, etc.) - Art supplies (colored pencils, markers, etc.) - Brochure templates or blank paper

Procedure:

1. Introduction (10 minutes):
   • Begin the lesson by discussing the importance of mental health and its impact on overall well-being.
   • Define mental illness as a condition that affects a person’s thinking, feeling, behavior, or mood, leading to distress and impaired functioning.
   • Explain that students will be working in pairs to create an informational brochure about a specific mental illness of their choice.
2. Choosing a Mental Illness (10 minutes):
   • Allow students to choose a mental illness they are interested in researching and presenting.
   • Encourage students to select a mental illness that is not commonly discussed to broaden their understanding.
3. Research (20 minutes):
   • Instruct students to use computers and research materials to gather information about their chosen mental illness.
   • Students should focus on understanding the definition of mental illness, the specific mental illness chosen, its symptoms, and available resources for support.
4. Brochure Design (15 minutes):
   • Provide students with brochure templates or blank paper to create their brochures.
   • Explain that the brochure should be visually appealing, organized, and easy to read.
   • Encourage students to use colors, images, and headings to make the information stand out.
5. Content Development (25 minutes):
   • Instruct students to divide the brochure into sections: Introduction, Definition of Mental Illness, Definition of Chosen Mental Illness, Symptoms, and Resources.
   • Students should write clear and concise definitions for mental illness and the chosen mental illness.
   • Students should research and list specific symptoms associated with the chosen mental illness.
   • Students should identify and provide contact information for local and national resources that can help individuals with mental illness.
6. Collaboration and Presentation (20 minutes):
   • Pair students together and allow them to share their research findings and brochure designs.
   • Encourage students to provide constructive feedback to their partners.
   • Each pair should present their brochure to the class, highlighting the key points and resources.
7. Reflection and Discussion (10 minutes):
   • Lead a class discussion on the importance of mental health awareness and the impact of mental illness on individuals and society.
   • Ask students to reflect on what they learned during the project and how it has changed their perception of mental illness.
8. Assessment:
   • Evaluate the completed brochures based on accuracy, organization, creativity, and overall presentation.
   • Assess students’ ability to work collaboratively and effectively communicate their research findings.

Extension Activity: - Students can display their brochures in the school library or counseling office to raise awareness about mental health. - Students can create a short presentation or role-play to educate their peers about the chosen mental illness and its impact.

Note: It is essential to create a safe and supportive classroom environment when discussing mental illness. Remind students to be respectful and sensitive to the topic throughout the lesson.