Exploring Inner Beauty

Program of Study Outcomes

Alberta Curriculum, Grade 3, English Language Arts

• General Outcome 2: Comprehend and respond personally and critically to oral, print, and other media texts.
  • 2.2 Respond to texts: Experience a variety of texts, and connect them to personal experiences.
  • 2.3 Understand forms and genres: Identify key elements of narrative texts.

Students Will Be Able To:

• Identify the central theme of "inner beauty" in the picture book Standing Beautiful.
• Connect the theme to their own experiences and express these connections through discussion and creative activities.
• Demonstrate an understanding of narrative elements like characters, setting, and plot through group activities and presentations.

Materials and Equipment

• Multiple copies of the picture book Standing Beautiful.
• Chart paper and markers
• Drawing paper and coloured pencils/crayons
• Whiteboard and dry-erase markers

Preparation and Logistical Considerations

1. Ensure availability of one copy of the book Standing Beautiful per pair of students.
2. Pre-draw a chart on the whiteboard for capturing key ideas during the discussion.
3. Arrange desks in groups of four to facilitate teamwork.
4. Prepare a corner for the "Beautiful Corner" where students can display their work.

Introduction/Review (10 minutes)

1. Greet the students and briefly review the concept of "beauty" – ask students what it means to them.
2. Introduce the book Standing Beautiful by showing its cover and asking predictions about its story.
3. Explain that we'll be exploring the idea of "inner beauty" and personal connections to it through a story.

Transition 1: Reading (15 minutes)

• Teacher reads Standing Beautiful aloud to the class.
• Pause at key points to ask predictive questions: “What do you think will happen next?” “How do you think the character feels right now?”

Transition 2: Class Discussion (10 minutes)

• Facilitate a guided discussion:
  • Ask students to describe the characters, setting, and main events.
  • Discuss the theme of "inner beauty" by asking who in the story is beautiful and how they show it.
  • Record students' thoughts on the pre-drawn chart on the whiteboard, focusing on the character traits that demonstrate inner beauty.

Transition 3: Creative Activity (15 minutes)

• In groups, students will create a "Beautiful Breaking News" poster:
  • Each group receives chart paper and markers.
  • They will illustrate a scene from the book and write a short news story headline that captures an instance of inner beauty demonstrated by the characters.
  • Encourage creativity in both drawing and storytelling!

Conclusion (5 minutes)

1. Each group shares their poster with a brief description of their chosen moment of inner beauty. Students can stand up and display their “news” as they explain.
2. Reiterate the key message that beauty is found in our actions and how we treat others. Encourage students to think of ways they can be "standing beautiful" in their daily lives.

Assessment

• Formative Assessment: Observe student participation during group discussions and story activities, noting their understanding and connections made to the theme of inner beauty.
• Poster Review: Assess each group’s poster for creativity, understanding of the theme, and clarity in expressing their ideas both visually and in writing.
• Informal Feedback: Provide verbal feedback to students on their group activities, emphasizing their ability to identify and express the theme of the book.

By following this detailed and engaging lesson plan, teachers can instill in their students a deeper understanding and appreciation of inner beauty, all in the context of developing critical comprehension and personal connection skills as outlined in the Alberta Grade 3 English Language Arts curriculum.