| 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 | Novel Once |
| Quantity | 1 |
| Any other preferences |
To spark curiosity and set the stage for exploring the themes and characters in the novel "Once" by Morris Gleitzman.
Begin the lesson by dimming the lights slightly and playing soft, ambient music in the background that evokes a sense of mystery. This will help to create an atmosphere that encourages imagination.
Present the idea that the class is going to time travel to different moments in history. Explain that they'll be journeying through the eyes of a young protagonist, just like they would in the novel "Once". Share with them that time travel often involves letters - messages from the past that are meaningful and full of emotion.
Hand each student a piece of paper and invite them to write a letter to their future selves, set ten years in the future. Encourage them to include:
After 10 minutes of writing, invite a few students to share what they've written (optional). This will help build a community atmosphere and encourage openness and connection among classmates.
Once the activity is complete, remind the students that just like their letters, the story of "Once" is about a boy reflecting on his past experiences and dreams for the future. Explain that they will delve into the themes of hope, resilience, and friendship as they read through the novel.
This engaging start will not only hook the students into the lesson but will also encourage them to think critically about their own journeys, setting a personal tone for their exploration of the novel.
Time Management: Aim for about 15-20 minutes for this introduction, allowing students to settle in before diving into the text.