Teacher Resource

Myth Busters Guide

Lesson 1

Research Phase

THE HOOK: MYTH VS. FACT SCRIPT

The Script:

"Welcome, Wellness Advocates! Today, we aren't just learning about health—we're becoming experts who will save our peers from the 'Zombies of Bad Habits.' But first, we need to see who can spot a lie."

Myth #1: Sleep Debt

"I can catch up on all my missed sleep on Saturday morning."

The Truth: Sleep debt accumulates. Sleeping in causes 'social jetlag,' making it harder to wake up Monday. The brain needs 9-11 hours *nightly* to process the day's learning.

Myth #2: Exercise Energy

"Exercise only makes you tired; it doesn't help your mood."

The Truth: Exercise releases dopamine and endorphins. Just 20 minutes of movement can increase focus for up to 2 hours afterward.

GUIDING THE RESEARCH

Key Search Terms for Students:

"Sleep requirements for 5th graders"
"How sugar affects kids' moods"
"Benefits of play for mental health"
"Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)"

The "WOW" Factor

Encourage students to find facts that counter common 5th-grade experiences. Examples:

"Blue light from screens tricks your brain into thinking it's noon."
"Your brain is actually MORE active when you sleep than when you watch TV."
"Hydration can prevent headaches caused by test stress."

CLOSING DEBRIEF QUESTIONS

"Which fact was the most shocking to your group?"

"Why is it harder to convince someone to change a habit than just giving them a fact?"

"How will these facts help us build a mood-supporting routine?"