aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type	Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson
Which subject	English
What age group	Year or Grade 9
What topic	First day of school 75 minute lesson on setting classroom expectations, getting to know you
Quantity	1
Any other preferences

First Day of School: Setting Classroom Expectations and Getting to Know You

Lesson Overview

This 75-minute lesson is designed for a Year 9 English class. It focuses on setting expectations for the classroom environment and allowing students to share about themselves to foster a sense of community.

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Icebreaker Activity: “The Human Bingo” (20 minutes)

Objective:

To get students moving, mingling, and learning fun facts about each other while starting to build a friendly atmosphere.

Materials Needed:

• Pre-made "Bingo" cards with a grid of statements. Example statements can include:
  • Has traveled to another country
  • Loves to read books
  • Plays a sport
  • Has a pet
  • Favorite subject is English
  • Enjoys writing poetry
  • Has a favorite movie genre, etc.

Instructions:

1. Create Bingo Cards: Before class, prepare a Bingo card for each student filled with various statements. Each square can contain simple prompts related to their interests or experiences.

2. Explain the Activity: Inform students that they will circulate the classroom, asking their classmates questions that match the statements on their Bingo cards. When they find someone who meets a criteria, they get that person to sign the square.

3. Time Limit: Allow about 10-15 minutes for students to fill in their cards.

4. Debrief: After the activity, gather the class and ask students to share their findings. This facilitates introductions and creates conversation starters for future interactions.

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Establishing Classroom Expectations (30 minutes)

Objective:

To collaboratively establish a set of classroom rules and expectations that promote respect, responsibility, and engagement.

Instructions:

1. Introduce the Ground Rules: Start by discussing why classroom rules are important. Use questions to prompt discussion:

   • What makes a good learning environment?
   • How can we make sure everyone feels safe and respected?

2. Group Activity: Split the class into small groups and provide them with large paper and markers. Ask each group to collaborate on creating 3-5 rules they would like to establish for the classroom. Encourage creativity and ownership over the rules.

3. Share and Discuss: Allow each group to present their ideas. As they share, write down agreed-upon rules on a whiteboard or projector. Discuss the reasoning behind each rule and the positive impact it will have on the learning environment.

4. Class Agreement: Once all rules are shared, help the class reach a final agreement. Display the rules visibly in the classroom and consider creating a “Classroom Expectations Contract” that students can sign to symbolize their commitment.

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Getting to Know Your Teacher (10 minutes)

Objective:

To introduce oneself and create a personal connection with students.

Instructions:

1. Personal Introduction: Share a little about yourself, including your background, interests, and teaching philosophy. Use an engaging format like a short slideshow or a fun fact video to keep it interesting.

2. Q&A Session: Invite students to ask questions about you, your teaching style, or your favorite books. This sets the tone that it's okay to be curious and engaged with each other.

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Conclusion and Closing Activity: “Reflection Journals” (15 minutes)

Objective:

To reflect on the day’s activities and establish a routine for expressing thoughts and feelings.

Instructions:

1. Journal Prompt: Hand out notebooks or journals. Ask students to respond to the following prompt:

   • “What is one thing you learned today about yourself or someone else, and how do you feel about our classroom expectations?”

2. Sharing Out: If time allows, select a few students to share their reflections. This gives them the opportunity to voice their thoughts and enhances community support.

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Wrap-Up

Remind students that the first day sets the tone for the rest of the year. Encourage them to keep an open mind and be ready to engage in the upcoming lessons. Thank them for their participation, and express excitement for the year ahead!