aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type	Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson
Which subject	Reading
What age group	Year or Grade 8
What topic	Back to School
Quantity	1
Any other preferences	Look for a lesson I can use for Small Group Pull out Reading class of 8th graders many of whom I have already had in 6th and 7th grade. I would like them to in an interactive format, review rules and expectations that they know of already and then introduced what will be new or different about eighth grade expectations. Since the last year before high school so many teachers have high school type of expectations about behavior and work.

Back to School: Setting the Stage for 8th Grade Success

Lesson Introduction

Welcome Back, Readers!

As we gather for our first reading class of the year, we’re not just kicking off another school year; we’re embarking on a journey together as we prepare for high school! I know many of you from previous years, and I’m excited to see how you’ve grown. Today, we’ll not only review the rules and expectations we’ve had in the past but also introduce what it means to be an 8th grader in this small group pull-out reading class.

The Interactive Icebreaker: "What’s Different?"

1. Group Formation:

   • Split the class into small groups of 3–4 students. Mix them up, so each group has a combination of students from different previous classes.

2. Discussion Prompt:

   • “What’s one thing you remember from our reading classes in 6th and 7th grade, and what is one thing you think will be different this year as we step into 8th grade?”

3. Chart It:

   • Provide each group with a large sheet of paper and markers. Ask them to create a two-column chart:
     • Column 1: Favorites from 6th and 7th grade reading classes (e.g., favorite books, activities, or discussions).
     • Column 2: New expectations or changes they anticipate for 8th grade (e.g., more independent reading, higher-level discussions).

4. Gallery Walk:

   • Once completed, hang each group's chart around the room. Allow students to walk around and read the other groups' charts. Encourage them to add sticky notes with comments or additional thoughts on any chart that resonates with them.

Group Sharing

After the gallery walk, regroup and invite each small group to share one favorite from their chart and one anticipated change. As they share, take notes on a whiteboard or chart paper for everyone to see. This collective knowledge will serve as our foundation as we dive deeper.

Setting the Stage for Expectations

Reflect on the Contributor Roles

• Discussion Leader: Guide the conversation and ensure everyone has a chance to speak.
• Note Taker: Record key points from the discussion for your group to review later.
• Presenter: Share your group's ideas with the class.
• Time Keeper: Make sure your group stays on track during discussions.

Establishing Classroom Rules

1. Respect Each Other's Opinions: We all bring different perspectives to the reading material.
2. Be Prepared: Come with your materials and be ready to discuss.
3. Stay Engaged: Actively participate in discussions and activities.
4. Take Responsibility: Be accountable for your contributions—whether reading, sharing, or supporting your peers.

Introducing New Expectations

• Independence in Reading: Using guided reading strategies to choose your texts.
• Critical Thinking: Moving from summarizing to analyzing the texts we read.
• Increased Collaboration: Expect more group projects and discussions to prepare you for high school teamwork.
• Homework and Assignments: Develop your time management skills with a homework schedule that balances reading, assignments, and personal life.

Closing Activity

To wrap up our session, use a fun "Back to School Bingo" activity where each square contains various goals or expectations for 8th grade (e.g., “Read a genre you’ve never tried before,” “Work in a group to complete a project,” or “Write a personal reading goal”). Students find classmates who have accomplished those goals and sign off on their bingo sheet. This not only serves as a review of expectations but also as a way to break the ice and get to know each other.

Conclusion

Today marks the beginning of an exciting year in reading. I can’t wait to see how each of you steps up to meet our new expectations, grow as readers, and prepare for success in high school. Let’s make this a year full of discovery, collaboration, and achievement!

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Feel free to modify any parts of this lesson plan to best suit your classroom environment and your students' needs. Enjoy your first day back!