| aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type | Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson |
| Which subject | English |
| What age group | Year or Grade 8 |
| What topic | |
| Quantity | 1 |
| Any other preferences |
To explore persuasive writing techniques through an engaging and interactive activity.
Introduction: Start the lesson by dimming the classroom lights and playing a soft, mysterious background track. As students settle in, provide them with a brief statement on a controversial topic, such as:
After displaying the statement on the board, inform the students that they are going to participate in a quick debate but with a twist: they must argue in the dark!
Pair Up: Divide the class into pairs, ensuring that each pair is positioned in different corners of the room.
Time Limit: Give them 2 minutes to discuss their assigned stance on the topic (for or against). Encourage them to think creatively and use persuasive techniques they have learned about in previous lessons.
Swap Partners: After the first two minutes, ask one half of the class to rotate to a new partner where they will argue their original stance but now from the opposite side. Again, allow 2 minutes for discussion.
Reflection: Once the activity is complete, turn on the lights and gather the class together. Discuss what techniques were most effective in persuading their partners. Ask questions such as:
Now that students have warmed up with some lively debate, transition into the day’s lesson on persuasive writing techniques. Explain that you will dive deeper into the components of effective persuasive writing and how they can use these techniques in their own writing.
This engaging start will not only ignite enthusiasm for the lesson but also create a safe space for students to express their thoughts and opinions. It sets the stage for an insightful discussion on the art of persuasion and how it applies to effective writing.