aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type	Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson
Which subject	Reading
What age group	Year or Grade 6
What topic	Setting using the novel HOLES
Quantity	1
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Starting the Lesson on Setting in "Holes"

Opening Activity: The Setting Scavenger Hunt

Objective

To engage students in understanding the concept of setting by exploring various elements in the novel "Holes" by Louis Sachar.

Materials Needed

• Copies of "Holes"
• Sticky notes or colored index cards
• Markers or pens
• Chart paper
• A timer

Introduction (5 minutes)

Begin the lesson by briefly discussing what "setting" means in literature. Explain that the setting includes the time, place, and environment in which a story occurs.

Hook Activity (15 minutes)

1. Setting the Stage:

   • Hand out sticky notes or colored index cards to each student.
   • Ask them to write down one word or short phrase that they associate with the setting of "Holes." This could be a location, a feeling, or an object that they think captures the essence of the environment in the story.
   • Once everyone has written their words, ask them to share their responses with the class. Write their contributions on the board to start a collective word bank about the setting.

2. The Scavenger Hunt:

   • Divide students into small groups (3-4 per group).
   • Assign each group a section of the first few chapters of "Holes." Instruct them to find specific details that describe:
     • The physical setting (locations, landscapes)
     • The time period (era, season, time of day)
     • The atmosphere (emotions, mood)
   • Provide each group with 10 minutes to annotate their sections in the book for these elements.

Quick Discussion (5 minutes)

Bring the class back together and ask each group to share one finding regarding the setting. As they present, encourage them to elaborate on how these details enrich the narrative and character experiences. Use this time to also fill in the word bank on the board based on their findings.

Transition to Reading (5 minutes)

Conclude by explaining that understanding the setting is crucial as it shapes the characters’ experiences and influences the plot. Tell students that in the next part of the lesson, they will dive deeper into "Holes," exploring how the setting impacts the characters and the themes of the story.

Wrap-Up

This engaging start will not only captivate the students' attention but will also prepare them for a more in-depth discussion of setting in "Holes." Transition seamlessly into reading and analysis, leveraging their initial curiosity and contributions.