Mini-Lesson

Activating Prior Knowledge

Mini-Lesson: Grades 2-3

Objective: Students will activate prior knowledge before they read.

1. Tell students that today the winner of one of the world's most important awards was announced. The award is the Nobel Peace Prize. Each year, it goes to a person or a group who has worked hard to make peace, fight poverty, battle illness and help the environment. Ask: Who do you think won this year's Nobel Peace Prize? Encourage students to share and explain their predictions.

2. Pass out the timeforkids.com story, Obama Wins Peace Prize. As students read, have them look for and underline the reasons Obama was picked for the prize.

3. Challenge students to think critically. Ask: Do you agree with the Nobel Committee's choice? What effect might this award have on Obama's ability to lead in the United States and around the world?

Extend Learning: Have students compare their own interests, traits and accomplishments with those of President Obama. Use the worksheet The New President and Me.