Redesigning an 8th Grade Literary Devices Lesson Using the 5E Model and Digital Tools

Introduction

In this post, I will discuss my redesigned lesson plan for an 8th-grade English Language Arts class focused on introducing literary devices. Using the 5E instructional model, I integrated various digital tools to enhance student engagement and learning.

Original Lesson Overview

The original lesson plan introduced students to literary devices such as metaphors, similes, and personification through a straightforward lecture followed by individual reading and worksheet activities. While the lesson provided foundational knowledge, it lacked interactivity and did not fully engage students.

Redesigned Lesson Using the 5E Model

1. Engage: I began with an interactive Nearpod video that introduced literary devices. Embedded quizzes helped gauge students’ prior knowledge and piqued their interest.
2. Explore: In pairs, students explored a short story, identifying and highlighting literary devices in a shared Google Doc, encouraging collaboration and discussion.
3. Explain: Each pair presented their findings to the class using Flipgrid, allowing them to articulate their understanding and receive peer feedback.
4. Elaborate: Students then created visual posters using Canva to illustrate a selected literary device, fostering creativity and deeper understanding through original examples.
5. Evaluate: Finally, students completed a Google Forms quiz to assess their understanding of the devices discussed and reflect on any challenges they faced.

Reflection on Lesson Plans

Original Lesson Strengths:

• Provided essential information about literary devices.
• Simple structure suitable for traditional teaching.

Original Lesson Weaknesses:

• Lacked student engagement and interaction.
• Relied heavily on worksheets and direct instruction.

Redesigned Lesson Strengths:

• Integrated digital tools that fostered collaboration and creativity.
• Engaged students actively through various formats (videos, discussions, creative projects).

Redesigned Lesson Weaknesses:

• Required reliable access to technology, may be a barrier in some classrooms.
• Involves more preparation and management of multiple digital platforms.

Why Digital Tools?

Integrating tools like Nearpod, Flipgrid, and Canva enhances the learning experience by making it interactive and engaging. These platforms allow students to express their understanding creatively and collaboratively, catering to different learning styles and preferences.

Conclusion

This lesson redesign showcases the benefits of using the 5E model and digital tools in teaching literary devices. By engaging students through interactive activities, they not only learned the content but also developed essential skills like collaboration and creativity.

Image Credit: CUNY. (2023). Digital learning platform. EdTech Commons. https://edtech.commons.gc.cuny.edu/wp-content/blogs.dir/25677/files/2023/04/digital-learning-platform.jpeg