Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson. The academic subject for which the text must be created - English. Content must be appropriate f...
aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_typeGive a creative idea how to begin a lesson
Which subjectEnglish
What age groupDoesn't matter
What topicReading an informal email
Quantity1
Any other preferences

Engaging Introduction to Reading Informal Emails

Lesson Opening: "Guess Who?" Email Game

Objective:

To create an engaging atmosphere while introducing the concept of informal emails, encouraging students to practice reading comprehension through a fun activity.

Materials Needed:

Activity Overview:

Start the class with a light-hearted game called "Guess Who?" where students will work in pairs to read a series of informal emails and guess the sender based on the content provided.


Step 1: Set the Scene

Begin the lesson by projecting an informal email on the screen (or writing a brief version on the whiteboard). Use the following example:


Subject: Exciting Adventure Ahead!

Hi everyone!

I'm so excited to tell you about my trip to the Great Barrier Reef next month! I've been planning this for ages, and I can't wait to go snorkelling and see all the beautiful coral and fish. Do you have any tips on what to pack?

Catch up soon!

Cheers,
Sarah


Step 2: Form Teams and Distribute Emails

Divide the students into pairs and distribute a variety of informal email templates that have been written from different perspectives (friends, family, etc.). Ensure that each email has a fun or intriguing experience that students can relate to.

Step 3: The Guessing Game

  1. Read: Each pair reads their assigned email.
  2. Discuss: They must discuss who they think the sender is based on the content and write down any key clues they’ve identified.
  3. Present: Pairs take turns presenting their emails to the class, summarising key points while trying to maintain the suspense of revealing the sender. The rest of the class guesses who the sender is!

Step 4: Connect to Lesson Goals

After the game, gather the class to discuss what makes an informal email engaging. Highlight elements like tone, personal anecdotes, questions that invite responses, and the importance of maintaining a friendly and approachable style.

Conclusion

Conclude the introduction by explaining that through this lesson, students will learn to read and understand informal emails better, recognising the nuances in tone and intent. Encourage them to think about how their own informal communication reflects their personality and relationships.

By starting the lesson with a fun and interactive activity, students will feel more motivated to delve into reading informal emails and will have a more personal investment in the content.