aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type	Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson
Which subject	Reading
What age group	Doesn't matter
What topic	Authors claim
Quantity	1
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Engaging Lesson Introduction: Exploring Author's Claim

Objective

To spark interest and create a meaningful understanding of an author's claim in reading comprehension.

The Hook: "Dear Future You" Letters

Overview

To kick off this lesson on the author's claim, invite students to engage in a creative writing exercise that encourages them to think about their own perspectives and claims. This will set the stage for analyzing how authors express their claims in texts.

Instructions

1. Materials Needed:

   • Blank paper
   • Decorative materials (markers, stickers, etc.)
   • Envelopes

2. Activity Steps:

   • Introduction (5 minutes): Start the lesson by asking students, "What do you stand for? What message or belief would you want others to know about you?" Write their responses on the board to brainstorm ideas. Explain that every writer has something they believe in strongly—this belief is their "claim."

   • Writing Letters (15 minutes): Ask each student to write a letter to their future self. In this letter, they should express a personal claim or belief they hold dear. Encourage them to explain why this claim matters and how they see it influencing their future.

   • Decorating Letters (10 minutes): Allow students to decorate their letters and place them in envelopes. This gives them a tangible reminder of their thoughts and encourages them to express their creativity.

3. Discussion (10 minutes):

   • Have a few students share their letters (if they feel comfortable).
   • Relate their personal claims to the concept of an author's claim in writing. Discuss how authors use their works to convey their beliefs, opinions, and messages to their audience.

4. Transition to Reading (5 minutes):

   • Explain that, just like their letters, authors craft claims in their texts. Today, we will explore various texts to identify these claims and analyze how they support them.

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Conclusion

This engaging start not only personalizes the concept of an author's claim but also builds community among students through shared discussions. By linking their personal beliefs to the works of authors, students are likely to feel more invested in the lesson ahead.