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 groupYear or Grade 7
What topicELA
Quantity1
Any other preferences

Creative Lesson Opening for English Language Arts (ELA) - Grade 7

Lesson Topic: Exploring Themes in Literature


Icebreaker Activity: The "Mystery Box" of Themes

Objective:

Engage students in a fun and interactive way to introduce the concept of themes in literature.

Materials Needed:

Activity Instructions:

  1. Set the Scene: Begin the class by showing the students a mysterious box placed at the front of the room decorated with question marks and question-themed stickers. Explain that this box holds hidden treasures related to the themes of literature.

  2. Introduce the Mystery Box: Tell the students that inside the box are various theme cards that represent significant ideas often found in stories. Explain that themes are the deeper messages authors want to convey through the characters and plots.

  3. Group Dynamics: Divide the class into small groups of 3 to 4 students each. Each group will have a chance to draw a theme card from the box without looking.

  4. Theme Exploration: Set a timer for 5 minutes. In their groups, students will brainstorm and discuss the theme they have drawn. They should consider questions like:

    • What does this theme mean?
    • Where have they seen this theme in books, movies, or their own lives?
  5. Share and Connect: After the timer goes off, have each group take turns sharing their theme with the class and providing an example from literature or life that illustrates this theme.

  6. Transition to Lesson: Conclude this activity by writing all the themes discussed on the whiteboard and mention that today’s lesson will dive deeper into understanding how themes shape the narratives we read. Introduce the main lesson focused on analyzing specific themes in selected texts.

Purpose of the Activity:

This icebreaker not only fosters collaboration and communication among students but also piques their interest in the lesson by making them active participants right from the start. It sets a lively tone for exploring themes in literature, preparing them for a deeper analysis of texts they'll encounter.


Follow-Up:

After this engaging introduction, transition smoothly into guided reading of a chosen text where students will identify and discuss the themes in a structured manner, reinforcing what they’ve learned during the icebreaker.