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	Reading comprehension on Refugee boy
Quantity	1
Any other preferences

Lesson Introduction: Exploring "Refugee Boy"

Objective

Today, we will delve into the poignant narrative of Refugee Boy by Benjamin Zephaniah. Our goal is to enhance our reading comprehension through engaging discussions, critical thinking, and connecting with the story’s themes.

Hook Activity: "Walk in Their Shoes"

Materials Needed:

• Large sheets of paper
• Colourful markers
• A timer
• A comfortable space for small group discussions

Instructions:

1. Set the Scene: Begin the lesson by dimming the lights and playing soft, reflective music in the background to create an inviting atmosphere. Present the students with this thought-provoking quote from Refugee Boy:

   “To be a refugee is to be lost – lost from your home, your family, your identity.”

2. Group Divide: Split the class into small groups of 4-5 students. Provide each group with a large sheet of paper and colourful markers.

3. Brainstorming Session: Ask each group to spend 5 minutes brainstorming the emotions and challenges they think a refugee might face. Encourage them to consider aspects such as:

   • Homesickness
   • Fear and uncertainty
   • Hope and resilience
   • Finding a sense of belonging

   They should write down their ideas in words and drawings on the paper.

4. Gallery Walk: After brainstorming, groups will then display their papers around the classroom. In a 10-minute gallery walk, students will rotate around the room to observe and reflect on the ideas shared by their peers. Encourage them to take notes or mark any thoughts that resonate with them.

5. Class Discussion: Reconvene as a whole class and facilitate a discussion based on the following prompts:

   • What common themes did you notice in the group work?
   • How might these feelings impact a person's identity or their journey?
   • Can you think of any real-life events or stories that relate to the experiences of refugees?

6. Bridge to the Text: Finally, introduce Refugee Boy. Explain that the story we are about to read will illustrate a young boy's personal journey and the universal themes of loss, resilience, and the search for identity.

Conclusion

This engaging introductory activity not only ignites curiosity about the narrative of Refugee Boy but also promotes empathy and understanding among the students. In exploring real human experiences, we prepare ourselves to connect deeply with the text and develop strong reading comprehension skills.

Preparation for Reading

As we move forward, I encourage you all to keep these thoughts in mind while reading. Consider how the author uses language to portray feelings and experiences, and think about how you can relate this story to your own life and the world around you.

Get ready to embark on this powerful journey through text!