aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type	Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson
Which subject	French as second language
What age group	Year or Grade 8
What topic	The verb manger
Quantity	1
Any other preferences

Engaging Introduction to the Verb "Manger"

Objective

To introduce the verb "manger" (to eat) in a fun and engaging way that resonates with students in Grade 8.

---

Lesson Introduction: The Mystery Food Box

Activating Prior Knowledge with a Fun Activity

Materials Needed:

• A sealed box (or container) with various food items or images of food
• A timer
• Whiteboard and markers

Step 1: The Mystery Box

1. Present the Box: Start the lesson by bringing out a Mystery Food Box. Tell students that inside the box are various foods they might find in a typical Canadian kitchen or restaurant.

2. Group Activity: Divide the class into small groups and give them 3 minutes to brainstorm as many French verbs related to food that they can think of. Encourage them to use any resources available to them (reading materials, smartphones).

Step 2: Food Reveal

3. Unveiling the Mystery: After the brainstorming session, open the Mystery Food Box. Reveal the items one by one, describing each item briefly in French. For example, "Voici une pomme!" (Here is an apple!) or "Voici un sandwich!" (Here is a sandwich!).

Step 3: Connecting to the Lesson

4. Introducing "Manger": After unveiling the foods, transition into the lesson by asking, "Que faites-vous avec ces aliments?" (What do you do with these foods?).

   • Encourage responses, leading them to the verb "manger".
   • Write “manger” on the board and ask students how it translates into English, eliciting the answer "to eat."

Step 4: Engage the Class

5. Class Participation:

   • Ask students to share their favorite food from the Mystery Box and ask, “Comment dit-on ‘I eat’ en français?” (How do you say ‘I eat’ in French?).
   • Guide them to conclude, “Je mange” (I eat).

6. Building onto the Lesson:

   • Explain that today, they will learn how to conjugate the verb "manger" and use it in various sentences to express their preferences and routines regarding food.

Conclusion of the Introduction

Wrap up this engaging start by stating that food is an essential part of French culture, and understanding how to use the verb "manger" will enhance their ability to discuss a crucial part of daily life in French-speaking countries.

---

By using the Mystery Food Box as an interactive tool, students are not only motivated but also set up for a successful exploration of the verb "manger" as they connect with the theme of food, making the learning experience relevant and enjoyable!