aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type	Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson
Which subject	No subject
What age group	Year or Grade 8
What topic	civics
Quantity	1
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Engaging Introduction to Civics Lesson

Lesson Title: "Your Voice, Your Vote: The Power of Participation"

Objective:

To explore the significance of civic engagement and understand how students can make an impact in their communities.

Opening Activity: "The Power of a Single Vote"

1. Setting the Scene: Begin the lesson by dimming the classroom lights slightly and playing a short, powerful video clip that showcases historical moments when civic participation changed the course of history in Australia, such as the suffragette movement or Indigenous rights. Aim for a video that is 2-3 minutes long, highlighting the importance of each person’s voice.

2. Discussion Prompt: After the video, ask students to reflect on the following questions. Write these on the board for everyone to see:

   • How did the individuals or groups in the video make a difference?
   • What emotions did you feel while watching it?
   • Why do you think civic participation is crucial for a democracy?

3. Think-Pair-Share Activity:

   • Think: Give students a minute to think about their responses.
   • Pair: Have them turn to a partner and discuss their thoughts for two minutes.
   • Share: Invite a few pairs to share their insights with the whole class. This should create an environment of shared ideas and stimulate enthusiasm for the subject.

Transition to Lesson Content:

Tell students that just as those featured in the video took action, they too have the power to effect change in their communities through civic responsibility. The lesson will focus on understanding our civic duties, the electoral process, and how they can actively participate in shaping their future.

Conclusion of the Introduction:

Wrap up the introduction by emphasising that today's lesson will empower them to not just be spectators in society, but active participants. Engage them with the thought: "How will you use your voice to make a difference?"

Materials Needed:

• Projector and screen for the video
• Whiteboard and markers for writing discussion prompts
• A timer for managing the Think-Pair-Share activity

This creative launch sets a motivational tone for the lesson on civics and encourages students to recognise their potential influence within a democratic society.