aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type	Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson
Which subject	Health
What age group	Year or Grade 8
What topic	Perseverance
Quantity	1
Any other preferences

Lesson Starter: The Journey of a Champion

Objective:

To inspire Year 8 students to understand and appreciate the concept of perseverance in the context of health and personal development.

Activity Overview:

This lesson will kick off with a motivational and engaging activity that primes students for learning about perseverance.

---

Materials Needed:

• Poster Board
• Markers
• Timer
• Sticky Notes
• A short video clip (3-5 minutes) about a sports figure known for their perseverance (e.g., an athlete overcoming injury or adversity)

---

Step 1: Video Inspiration (5 minutes)

Begin the lesson by showing a short video clip about an athlete known for their perseverance. Choose a story that resonates with young people, focusing on challenges faced and how they overcame them. A good example could be the story of Jessica Ennis-Hill, the British heptathlete who triumphed after recovering from injury.

Discussion Prompt:

After the video, ask students:

• "What challenges did the athlete face?"
• "How did perseverance play a role in their success?"

---

Step 2: Reflection and Sticky Notes (10 minutes)

Distribute sticky notes to each student and ask them to write one personal goal they are currently working towards — this could relate to health, academics, or sports.

Next, ask them to reflect on a time when they had to persevere to achieve a goal, writing it down on the back of the sticky note.

Example:

Front: "Improve my fitness for basketball."
Back: "I kept practicing even when I was tired."

---

Step 3: Group Sharing (10 minutes)

After everyone has completed their sticky notes, invite them to place their sticky notes on a designated poster board labelled "Our Journey of Perseverance".

In small groups, students can share their goals and reflections, creating a community of support and understanding.

---

Step 4: Conclusion and Transition (5 minutes)

Wrap up this introduction by discussing the importance of perseverance in personal health and overall well-being. Highlight the connection between setting goals, overcoming obstacles, and staying committed, which will be the focus of the upcoming lesson.

Transition Statement:

"Just like our athlete who faced challenges, we all have goals that require dedication and perseverance. Today, we will explore how we can cultivate this vital quality in our lives."

---

By using storytelling, personal reflection, and group sharing, students will be engaged from the very beginning of the lesson, setting a positive and motivating tone for the topic of perseverance in health.