aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type	Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson
Which subject	English
What age group	Year or Grade 11
What topic
Quantity	1
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Lesson Introduction: Exploring Identity through Poetry

Objective

To engage Year 11 students in a deep and meaningful exploration of identity using poetry as a medium.

Hook: "Identity Masks"

Setting the Scene

As students enter the classroom, soft instrumental music plays in the background, creating a reflective atmosphere. A projection on the whiteboard displays a series of images that represent various aspects of identity: a tribal mask, a colourful festival costume, a pair of shoes, a graduation cap, and a family photo.

Classroom Activity

1. Opening Discussion (10 minutes)

   • Begin with a question: “What do you think makes up a person’s identity?”
   • Encourage students to share their thoughts either verbally or by writing down their ideas on sticky notes. Place the notes on a dedicated “Identity Wall” in the classroom.

2. Identity Masks Craft (15 minutes)

   • Provide each student with a plain paper mask (or they can create a representation using paper plates).
   • Ask them to decorate their masks with words, symbols, or images that represent parts of their identity—cultural aspects, personal interests, values, and experiences.
   • As they work, circulate and discuss their choices, reinforcing how identity is multifaceted and personal.

3. Transition to Poetry (5 minutes)

   • Once the masks are complete, invite a few students to share their masks and the significance of their chosen symbols.
   • Bridge the discussion into poetry: introduce the idea that just as masks can represent who we are on the outside, poetry can reveal who we are on the inside.
   • Pose an opening question for the lesson: “How can poetry help us understand and express our identities?”

Learning Goals

By the end of the lesson, students will explore various poetic forms that delve into themes of identity and personal experience. They will learn to analyse and create their own poetry that reflects their understanding of who they are.

Conclusion

This engaging and creative introduction sets the tone for a deeper dive into the exploration of identity through poetry, allowing students to connect personally with the lesson while also stimulating critical thinking and expression.