Using what you have learned (and already know) about anticipatory sets, share (in 1-2 paragraphs) a very memorable lesson with a killer “hook” or anticipatory set. Consider the following prompts:
Provide detail about the subject area, learning targets, etc.
What made it so effective?
What (if anything) would you change if you taught the same lesson again?
Reflection: An anticipatory set I used that remains vivid in my mind was a formal observation I had following the October storm where many lost power due to unexpected amounts of heavy, wet snow. My lesson was performed in resource room with mixed grades levels and abilities but focused on the application of active reading strategies to boost comprehension and interaction with the text. With the storm only occurring the week prior, we all had some level of interaction and response to it. It was also an experience that was fresh in our mind to increase engagement and interest. The instructional portion of the lesson used an article from the Buffalo News depicting the science and stories behind the storm. My anticipatory set included the use of a whole group web graphic organizer where students contributed thoughts, feelings, and experiences from their personal experience from the storm. Brainstorming responses to a recent snowstorm that shut down school for multiple days piqued student interest as they were willing to share and listen about the experiences of others. They learned that some had power while others went days without it. They learned that some heard or saw the crackling of tree limbs as they crashed to the ground. And they all had stories to share about how they spent their time away from school. By the time we got around to reading the news article they had shared stories, raised questions, and displayed an interest in comparing what others outside of our immediate area (district) dealt with. If there was anything I would have changed about the lesson, it would have been to focus more on applying active reading strategies given a purpose (e.g., identifying imagery).
