aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type	Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson
Which subject	English
What age group	Year or Grade 3
What topic	digraphs
Quantity	1
Any other preferences

A Fun Start to Learning Digraphs: The Mystery Box

Objective

To engage Grade 3 students in the world of digraphs through an interactive and playful introduction.

Materials Needed

• A mystery box (a decorated cardboard box)
• Small objects or picture cards representing words with digraphs (e.g., ch for "chair," th for "thumb," sh for "shell," wh for "whistle")
• A whiteboard and markers
• A timer (optional)

Introduction Activity: The Mystery Box

Step 1: Set the Scene

Begin the lesson by gathering the students in a circle and showing them the mystery box. Explain that today is a digraph adventure, and the mystery box holds special objects that will help them uncover the secrets of digraphs.

Step 2: Unveiling the Mystery

1. Explain what digraphs are: "Digraphs are two letters that come together to make one sound."
2. Tell the students that you will be reaching into the mystery box and pulling out one object at a time.
3. As you pull out each object or picture card, ask the students to identify the item and say its name aloud.

Step 3: Digraph Discovery

• When an object is revealed, encourage the students to listen closely for any digraph sounds in the word.
• For example, if you pull out a "chair," prompt them with questions like:
  • "What sound do you hear at the beginning of 'chair'?"
  • "Can anyone tell me what two letters make that sound?"
• Write the digraph (such as "ch") on the whiteboard.

Step 4: Class Participation

Invite students to take turns pulling objects from the mystery box. Make it a friendly competition by using a timer to see how quickly they can find the digraphs. Encourage them to explain their reasoning when they find digraphs in the names of the objects.

Step 5: Wrap Up

After going through several objects, summarize by highlighting the different digraphs discovered. Encourage students to look for digraphs in their reading and writing throughout the week.

Conclusion

With an exciting introduction involving a mystery box, students will be engaged right from the start. This interactive approach not only piques their curiosity but also actively involves them in learning about digraphs in a fun and memorable way!