aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type	Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson
Which subject	English
What age group	Year or Grade 10
What topic	Night by Eli weisel
Quantity	1
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Engaging Introduction to "Night" by Elie Wiesel

Objective

To captivate students’ interest and prepare them for a profound exploration of Elie Wiesel's "Night" by fostering personal connections and encouraging empathy through impactful storytelling.

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Setting the Stage: A Reflective Moment

Opening Activity: "A Candle in the Dark"

Materials Needed:

• A single candle (or an LED candle for safety)
• A dimmed classroom setting
• Notecards and pens

Activity Steps:

1. Dim the Lights: Begin by softly dimming the lights in the classroom. Explain to students that they will participate in a reflective moment.

2. Introduce the Candle: Hold up the candle and explain its symbolism. “This candle represents hope and light in the darkest of times. Throughout history, there have been moments where humanity faces unimaginable trials, yet there are stories of resilience and survival.”

3. Share a Personal Anecdote: Briefly share a personal story of a time you faced a challenge or fear. Emphasize how moments of darkness can reveal inner strength, hope, or help us appreciate the light more.

4. Connect to the Text: Inform students that they will be diving into the memoir of Elie Wiesel, a story filled with darkness, struggle, and perseverance throughout the Holocaust.

Writing Prompt:

• Distribute notecards and pens to each student. Ask them to take a moment to reflect and write a short paragraph responding to the following prompt:
  "What does ‘light’ mean to you in times of darkness?"

5. Group Discussion: After giving students a few minutes to write, invite them to share their thoughts with a partner. Then, open the floor for a few volunteers to share their reflections with the whole class.

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Transition to "Night"

After discussing the personal meanings of light and darkness, gather everyone’s attention and say:
“Just as we explored light in our own lives, Elie Wiesel’s 'Night' takes us on a journey through one of history's darkest periods. Together, we will uncover not only the harrowing experiences he faced but also the enduring human spirit that shines through in times of despair.”

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Conclusion

By engaging students in a personal and reflective activity, you create a safe space for them to connect emotionally with "Night." This approach sets a thoughtful tone for discussions about historical events, ethics, and humanity while prompting students to explore their thoughts and feelings about hope amid darkness.