Lesson Plan: Nonfiction First Person POV
Subject: English
Duration: 30 Minutes
Grade Level: Middle School (6th-8th Grade)
Objectives
- Understand the concept of first-person point of view in nonfiction writing.
- Identify examples of first-person POV in various nonfiction texts.
- Create a short nonfiction piece using the first-person perspective.
Materials Needed
- Excerpts from nonfiction texts (biographies, memoirs, personal essays)
- Whiteboard and markers
- Handouts with examples and prompts
- Writing supplies (paper and pens)
Introduction (5 Minutes)
Begin the lesson by explaining the concept of point of view (POV) in writing.
- Definition of First Person POV: Explain that first-person perspective uses pronouns like "I," "me," "my," and "we." It allows the reader to see experiences directly through the narrator's eyes.
Mini-Lesson (10 Minutes)
Examples of First Person in Nonfiction
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Read Aloud:
- Select a brief excerpt from a well-known memoir, such as The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls or Educated by Tara Westover. Read it aloud to the class.
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Discuss the Text:
- Ask students to identify the first-person pronouns used in the excerpt.
- Discuss how these pronouns create a sense of intimacy and personal connection with the reader.
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Characteristics of First-Person Nonfiction:
- Authenticity: The narrator shares personal thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
- Emotional Engagement: Engages readers emotionally, allowing them to relate to the narrator’s experiences.
Guided Practice (10 Minutes)
- Group Activity:
- Split the class into small groups and provide each group with a different nonfiction excerpt.
- Ask them to identify first-person POV and list any first-person pronouns and phrases.
- After analyzing, have each group share their findings with the class.
Independent Practice (5 Minutes)
Writing Prompt
- Instruct students to write a brief nonfiction paragraph (5-7 sentences) about a personal experience using first-person POV.
- Encourage them to focus on emotions and sensory details to enhance their writing.
Conclusion (5 Minutes)
- Share & Reflect: Invite a few students to share their writing with the class.
- Discuss what they learned about the power of first-person POV in creating a strong connection with readers.
- Wrap up by reinforcing the idea that first-person POV can make nonfiction stories more relatable and compelling.
Assessment
- Evaluate student writing for:
- Correct use of first-person pronouns.
- Engagement and detail in their personal experiences.
Follow-Up Activity
- Assign students to read a nonfiction text of their choice (memoir, biography, etc.) at home and write a brief summary, noting any instances of first-person POV they identified.
This lesson plan should help students gain a solid understanding and appreciation of the first-person point of view in nonfiction writing, as well as develop their writing skills in a personal and engaging manner.