aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type	Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson
Which subject	English
What age group	Year or Grade 7
What topic	personal narrative writing
Quantity	1
Any other preferences

Lesson Introduction: Writing Personal Narratives

Hook: The Memory Box

Objective: To engage students in the topic of personal narratives by tapping into their emotions and memories.

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Step 1: Create a Memory Box

Ask each student to imagine a Memory Box in which they can store their most cherished memories.

Materials Needed:

• A small box (could be a shoebox or any other small container)
• Colored paper or index cards
• Markers or colored pencils
• Stickers (optional)

Step 2: Description of the Activity

Explain to the students that they will create their very own Memory Box using the materials provided. The goal is to fill their box with memories that make them feel something special—happiness, sadness, excitement, or nostalgia.

Instructions:

1. Choose Three Memories: Ask each student to think of three specific memories that are meaningful to them. These could be about family holidays, school events, a special accomplishment, or a time they faced a challenge.

2. Write Them Down: On colored paper or index cards, have students write down a brief description of each memory. They should include:

   • What happened
   • Who was involved
   • How they felt during that moment

3. Decorate the Box: Encourage students to decorate their Memory Box. They can draw symbols that represent each memory or use stickers to personalize it.

Step 3: Class Discussion

Once everyone has created their Memory Boxes, gather students for a class discussion. Prompt them with questions such as:

• What memories did you choose to include, and why?
• How did it feel to think back on those moments?
• What emotions did you experience while creating your box?

Step 4: Transition to Personal Narrative Writing

Link the Activity to Writing:

Explain that personal narratives are stories that come from our own experiences and feelings, just like the memories they've stored in their boxes. Today, we will embark on a journey to transform one of these memories into a captivating personal narrative.

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Closing

Reassure students that everyone has a unique story to tell and that sharing these stories can help connect us to others. Encourage them to be brave and honest in their writing, just as they were when selecting their cherished memories for the Memory Box.

This engaging start will set the tone for a creative and introspective lesson on personal narrative writing!