Note: This lesson was created before the video was added to the multimedia package. It is based on the comic strip "It's A Hit". Click here to view "It's A Hit".

This additional lesson plan is essential for ESL and SSL. A delightful option for all other curricula.

Instructions for Teachers

Step 1: Vocabulary. This is an essential preparation for the introduction of the class to the media to be presented.

Step 2: The Lesson Plan. Hear or watch the case up to the decision and/or read the comic strip; give opinions; listen to the judge's decision; mediation discussions.

Step 3: Idiomatic Expressions. Look at the comic strip and find (or get the students to find) the idiomatic expressions. Then list the expressions on the chalkboard. As you list each one, tell the students how this expression might be used. Ask the students who might be speaking who/what the expression is describing (see below).

Here are some samples of idiotmatic expressions for the lesson: IT'S A HIT!.

It's headed this way

• The storm, is head this way. (the weatherman is speaking)
• Criminals escaped from a jail are heading this way. (a news broadcaster is speaking)
• Hitchhiking "Are you heading my way?" (the hitchhiker is asking someone who has stopped or someone is asking a person for a lift)

Does he ever look hungry for a hit

• Hungry for marks. (describing a student who is studying and wants to do well)
• Hungry for sales. (describing a salesman trying to make a sale)

You can feel the excitement

• There's a feeling in the air. (describing Christmas)
• A feeling for what you're going to do next. (describing graduation)
• You can feel the tension. (how students might feel before a big exam)

Ask if the students can find any other expressions. For ESL students ask them these questions:

Can the expressions on the blackboard be translated into your own language AND/OR do you have similar expressions in your own language? In the case where all the students come from the same language background it would be worthwhile spending some time translating the English expressions into the native language of the students.

Step 4: Writing and acting skits based on the idiomatic expressions. Working in groups students write a skit incorporating one or more of the expressions which the teacher listed on the blackboard during Step 1 This is followed by each group acting out their dialogue.

Step 5: Presentations at a school assembly. This can be followed by a competition of different classes, grades, or a demonstration for another class - perhaps this can be presented at a school assembly. If you are doing it as a competition, prizes can be given for different categories. For example the categories might be: the most original; the funniest or saddest or most convincing; the group that uses the most expressions; the one who uses the best ‘props' - props should be very simple such as a hat, a stick, a blackboard…That way everyone can be a winner!!!