aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type	Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson
Which subject	English
What age group	Year or Grade 7
What topic	Richard III
Quantity	1
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Engaging Beginning to a Lesson on Richard III

Lesson Overview

Today, we’re going to delve into the fascinating world of William Shakespeare’s Richard III. This play is a captivating exploration of ambition, power, and the darker aspects of human nature. To kick off our lesson, we will embark on an imaginative journey that will help us connect with the themes and characters of the play.

The "Crown of Ambition" Activity

Objective

To stimulate students’ interest and foster critical thinking about the character of Richard III and the themes of ambition and power.

Materials Needed

• A simple paper crown template (you can draw this on a whiteboard or supply printed versions)
• Colouring materials (crayons, markers, or coloured pencils)
• A timer (optional)

Instructions

1. Introducing the Scene: Begin the lesson by dimming the lights slightly to create a more dramatic atmosphere. Present the following scenario to the class:

   Imagine you’re in the midst of a power struggle. The crown of the kingdom is at stake, and only one person can wear it. What would you do to claim your right to the throne?

2. Crown Creation: Hand out the paper crown templates. Ask the students to decorate their crowns with symbols that represent what they would do or sacrifice to gain power. This could include:

   • A sword for strength
   • A heart for love
   • Chains for the burdens of leadership

3. Sharing Ambitions: Once the crowns are decorated, invite students to share their designs and explain the significance of their chosen symbols. Encourage them to think about the following questions:

   • What do these symbols say about your ambition?
   • Is power worth the sacrifices you’ve illustrated?

4. Connecting to Richard III: Transition into a discussion about Richard III. Ask students how they think Richard’s ambition compares to their own ambitions illustrated on the crowns. This sets the stage for exploring the key character traits, motivations, and themes present in the play.

Conclusion

By starting with a creative and interactive activity, students will engage with the topic of Richard III on a personal level, paving the way for deeper understanding as we explore the text together. Now, let’s find out how Shakespeare presents ambition and the complexities of power through his portrayal of Richard!