| 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 | Hive by A.J. Betts |
| Quantity | 1 |
| Any other preferences |
Engage Year 9 students in a thought-provoking discussion about themes of community, identity, and the importance of individual roles within a group, as explored in Hive by A.J. Betts.
Begin by dimming the lights and playing a soft background buzz of bees to create an immersive atmosphere. Ask students to close their eyes and visualise a beehive — its structure, sounds, and the activity within it.
Once the sound fades, prompt students with the following questions:
Provide each student with a post-it note and ask them to write a single word or a short phrase that they associate with either "Connection" or "Identity". Encourage them to think about their own experiences in a community, such as at school, in sports teams, or among friends.
Invite students to attach their post-it notes to "The Hive Wall" under the corresponding headings. As they place their notes, have them read out what they wrote and share why they chose that word or phrase. Encourage a discussion around the variety of connections and identities, drawing parallels to bees in a hive.
Once the sharing wraps up, introduce the book Hive by A.J. Betts. Highlight that just like bees, the characters in Hive navigate their identities and connections within their community. Explain that the story delves into themes of belonging, choice, and individuality within a structured society.
This opening activity will not only stimulate engagement but also lay a solid foundation for exploring the rich themes present in Hive. The students will leave this introduction with a deeper understanding of the importance of their voices and identities within any community, seamlessly transitioning into the study of the text itself.