Our Families History

Objective

By the end of the lesson, students will understand the concept of family structures and historical perspectives on families. They will appreciate the diversity of family forms in a respectful, inclusive manner.

Curriculum Links

This lesson aligns with the Aistear framework focusing on Identity and Belonging, as well as the Early Years Framework in Ireland. It encourages students to explore their own identities and the various forms of families.

Materials Needed

• Large paper and markers/crayons
• Storybook featuring diverse families (e.g., "Who’s in a Family?" by Robert Skutch)
• Family tree templates (simple outlines)
• Craft supplies (stickers, glue)
• Digital presentation or images of different family structures (optional)

Lesson Structure

Introduction (5 minutes)

• Greeting and Circle Time: Start with a warm welcome and a brief discussion around families. Ask open-ended questions such as:
  • "What is a family?"
  • "Can you tell me something special about your family?"

Reading Aloud (10 minutes)

• Story Time: Read the chosen storybook that introduces a variety of family structures (single-parent families, extended families, adoptive families, etc.).
• Discussion: Pause throughout to ask:
  • "What makes each family special?"
  • "Do you see any families in this book that remind you of your own?"
  • Emphasise that every family is unique and important.

Interactive Activity (10 minutes)

• Family Tree Craft:
  1. Distribute family tree templates to each student.
  2. Encourage students to draw or write down their family members, focusing on diversity (including friends or pets).
  3. Allow them to decorate their trees with stickers and drawings to express their individuality.
  4. Enable students to share (voluntarily) about their family trees with the class.

Sharing and Reflection (5 minutes)

• Gallery Walk: Display the family trees around the classroom.
• Invite students to walk around and look at each other's artwork.
• Conclude with a circle sharing: Ask each student to say one thing they learned about families from their peers.

Differentiation

• Support: Provide additional support for students who may need help with writing or drawing. Pair them with a buddy.
• Extension: Encourage interested students to further explore family traditions or add stories from their family to their trees.

Assessment

Evaluate learning through:

• Participation in discussions and activities.
• Observations of engagement during craft activities.
• Listening to their reflections about their family trees.

Closing Warm-Up (Optional)

• Song: Sing a simple song about family to close the lesson, reinforcing the theme of diversity and belonging.

Reflection for Educators

Post-lesson, educators should reflect on:

• How inclusivity was achieved during discussions.
• The variety of families represented in the students' trees.
• Any adaptations needed for future lessons based on engagement levels.

This lesson not only teaches history but also fosters a sense of belonging and acceptance among students, highlighting the importance of understanding and appreciating different family structures.