Christmas Comprehension English Grammar JSS 1 Second Term Lesson Notes Week 9

Lesson Plan: Comprehension – Christmas

Subject: English Grammar
Class: Junior Secondary School 1 (JSS 1)
Term: Second Term
Week: 9
Age: 10–12 years
Topic: Comprehension – Christmas
Sub-topic: The Meaning, Celebration, and Importance of Christmas
Duration: 40 minutes


Behavioural Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

  1. Read and understand the comprehension passage on Christmas.
  2. Identify the key features and traditions of Christmas celebrations.
  3. Explain new vocabulary words related to the passage.
  4. Answer comprehension questions accurately.

Keywords

  • Christmas
  • Celebration
  • Traditions
  • Decorations
  • Festivities

Set Induction

The teacher asks:

  • “What do you know about Christmas?”
  • “How do you and your family celebrate Christmas?”

Entry Behaviour

Students are familiar with Christmas as a holiday and its cultural significance.


Learning Resources and Materials

  • Printed copies of the comprehension passage.
  • Pictures of Christmas trees, decorations, and celebrations.

Building Background/Connection to Prior Knowledge

The teacher connects the lesson to students’ experiences with Christmas, emphasizing its universal appeal and unique traditions.


Embedded Core Skills

  • Critical Thinking: Reflecting on the significance of Christmas traditions.
  • Collaboration: Group discussion on the topic.
  • Creativity: Sharing unique Christmas experiences.

Reference Books

  • Lagos State Scheme of Work for JSS 1 English Grammar.
  • Junior English Project.

Instructional Materials

  1. Printed comprehension passages.
  2. Flashcards with Christmas-related vocabulary.
  3. Images and videos of Christmas celebrations (optional).

Content

Comprehension Passage: Christmas

Christmas is one of the most celebrated holidays in the world. It is observed every year on December 25th by Christians to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. The name “Christmas” comes from “Christ’s Mass,” a special church service held in honor of Jesus.

People around the world celebrate Christmas in various ways. A common tradition is decorating homes with Christmas lights, trees, and ornaments. Families also exchange gifts to show love and appreciation for one another. Christmas carols and songs fill the air, adding to the festive atmosphere.

In many countries, Christmas is also a time for charity. People donate to the less fortunate, ensuring everyone can share in the joy of the season. Special meals are prepared, and families gather to eat together. Popular dishes include roasted chicken or turkey, rice, and cakes.

Although Christmas is primarily a Christian holiday, it is enjoyed by people of other religions and cultures as well. The message of love, peace, and goodwill is universal, making Christmas a truly special occasion.


Key Elements of the Passage

  1. Description: Christmas is a Christian holiday celebrated on December 25th.
  2. Traditions: Decorating homes, exchanging gifts, singing carols, and preparing special meals.
  3. Significance: Commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ and promotes love, peace, and goodwill.
  4. Charity: A time to help the less fortunate.

Vocabulary

  1. Christmas: The celebration of Jesus Christ’s birth.
  2. Tradition: Customs or beliefs passed down through generations.
  3. Ornaments: Decorative items used on Christmas trees.
  4. Charity: Helping those in need.
  5. Festivities: Celebrations and joyful activities.

Examples

  1. Christmas is celebrated on December 25th.
  2. Families exchange gifts during Christmas.
  3. Decorating a Christmas tree is a popular tradition.
  4. People sing Christmas carols to spread cheer.
  5. Charity is an important part of the Christmas season.

Presentation

Step 1: Revision of the Previous Topic

The teacher asks students to summarize what they learned about lions in the last lesson.

Step 2: Introduction of the New Topic

The teacher explains the significance of Christmas and its traditions.

Step 3: Student Contributions

Students read the passage aloud and share how they celebrate Christmas.


Teacher’s Activities

  1. Read the passage aloud and explain difficult words.
  2. Discuss Christmas traditions and their significance.
  3. Guide students in answering comprehension questions.

Learners’ Activities

  1. Listen attentively to the passage and take notes.
  2. Read the passage aloud in turns.
  3. Participate in discussions and answer questions.

Evaluation Questions

15 Fill-in-the-Blank Questions

  1. Christmas is celebrated on ______. (a) December 24th (b) December 25th (c) December 26th (d) January 1st
  2. The name “Christmas” comes from ______. (a) Christ’s Mass (b) Christ’s Miracle (c) Christian Festivities (d) Christ’s Birthday
  3. A common Christmas tradition is ______ homes. (a) cleaning (b) decorating (c) painting (d) selling
  4. Families exchange ______ to show love and appreciation. (a) letters (b) cards (c) gifts (d) clothes
  5. People sing ______ during Christmas. (a) love songs (b) carols (c) hymns (d) folk songs
    (Continue up to 15 questions.)

Class Activity Discussion

15 FAQs with Answers

  1. Q: Why is Christmas celebrated?
    A: To commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ.
  2. Q: What date is Christmas celebrated?
    A: December 25th.
  3. Q: What is a popular Christmas tradition?
    A: Decorating homes and exchanging gifts.
  4. Q: What do people sing during Christmas?
    A: Christmas carols.
  5. Q: Why is charity important during Christmas?
    A: It helps the less fortunate share in the joy of the season.
    (Continue up to 15 FAQs.)

Assessment

10 Short-Answer Questions

  1. What does Christmas commemorate?
  2. What is the meaning of “Christmas”?
  3. Name two popular Christmas traditions.
  4. What do people do to spread cheer during Christmas?
  5. How is Christmas a time for charity?
    (Continue up to 10 questions.)

Conclusion

The teacher emphasizes the importance of Christmas as a time of love, peace, and giving. Students’ answers are marked, and feedback is provided.


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