| aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type | Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson |
| Which subject | Pedagogy |
| What age group | College |
| What topic | Social work |
| Quantity | 1 |
| Any other preferences |
Begin your lesson on Social Work in a way that not only captures students' interest but also sets the tone for critical discussions. This session opener involves a creative storytelling approach that connects with real-life experiences in social work.
To engage students emotionally and intellectually through storytelling while introducing key concepts of social work.
Setting the Scene
Start with dimming the lights slightly, creating an intimate atmosphere. Prepare the students for a journey by asking them to close their eyes for a moment and visualize a community they care about. After about 30 seconds, ask them to open their eyes and invite them to share a few thoughts on what they envision, emphasizing feelings, struggles, and successes.
Tell a Story
Share a short fictional narrative about a community facing several social challenges, such as lack of access to mental health services, poverty, and educational disparities. Use vivid imagery to describe the characters engaging with these issues, such as a single mother juggling multiple jobs while trying to ensure her children’s success, or an elderly veteran who feels isolated and in need of support.
Example Story Excerpt:
“In the heart of Maplewood, a small town bustling with life but shadowed by hardship, families struggle to find the resources they need. Meet Clara, a bright-eyed girl with dreams of becoming a doctor, who often helps her mother serve dinner to their neighbors—neighbors who have become friends, yet are caught in the grips of despair…”
Facilitate a Discussion
Once the story is told, break the students into small groups and ask them to discuss the following questions:
After a brief discussion, invite groups to share their insights with the class.
Connecting to the Lesson
Transition smoothly into the lesson by highlighting how today’s topics will explore the theory and practice of social work, underpinning the necessity of empathy, advocacy, and community engagement in addressing similar real-world problems.
By starting your lesson in this interactive and emotional way, you create a strong foundation for understanding the complexities of social work. It not only sparks interest but also fosters camaraderie among students and reinforces the importance of social connection in their future careers. This approach promotes critical thinking and prepares students to dive deeper into the themes of social work throughout the lesson.
This engaging lesson opener not only aligns with educational standards but also adheres to US norms in promoting inclusivity and sensitivity towards social issues.