Lesson Plan: Big Books for Year 3 English
Duration
30 minutes
Learning Objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
- Identify the key features of big books.
- Participate in a shared reading experience.
- Express their thoughts and feelings about the book using descriptive language.
Materials Needed
- A selection of big books (ensure a range of genres and topics)
- Whiteboard and markers
- Chart paper and markers
- Sticky notes
Lesson Outline
Introduction (5 minutes)
- Begin with a brief discussion about what a big book is and why they are used in classrooms.
- Key Questions:
- Have you ever read a big book before?
- What makes big books special compared to regular-sized books?
- Write students' responses on the whiteboard.
Shared Reading (15 minutes)
- Select a big book to read aloud to the class. Choose a book that is engaging and appropriate for Year 3, such as "Where the Wild Things Are" by Maurice Sendak.
- As you read, engage students by asking predictive questions, such as:
- What do you think will happen next?
- How do you think the character feels?
- Encourage students to point out the illustrations and discuss how they enhance the story.
Discussion and Reflection (5 minutes)
- After finishing the book, lead a discussion about the story:
- What was your favourite part of the book? Why?
- Can we list some words that describe how the characters felt?
- Write down students' descriptive words on chart paper for later reference.
Writing Activity (5 minutes)
- Instruct students to think of their favourite character from the book.
- Provide each student with a sticky note to write one descriptive word about their character.
- Have students place their sticky notes on the chart paper.
Conclusion (Optional Extension)
- If time allows, ask a few students to share their sticky note words with the class.
- Encourage them to elaborate on their thoughts about the characters and the story.
Assessment
- Monitor student participation during the shared reading and discussions.
- Review the words written on sticky notes for understanding of descriptive language.
Notes for Teachers
- Ensure that the chosen big book is colourful and includes captivating illustrations to hold students’ interest.
- Be ready to adjust the pace of the lesson depending on student engagement and understanding.
Reflection Post-Lesson
- After the lesson, reflect on how well students responded to the big book.
- Consider areas for improvement for future lessons, such as book selection or student engagement strategies.