Connect students directly to the concept in a personal way. Capture students' attention by initiating a group problem-solving activity before delivery of instruction. Begin with a situation that is familiar to students and builds on what they already know. Construct a learning experience that allows diverse and personal student responses. Facilitate the work of cooperative teams of students.

Souvenirs as Symbols

Objective: Students will observe a variety of souvenirs and use these symbols as clues to identify special places in the U.S.
Activity: Each student brings in a souvenir representing a special location in the U.S., i.e. sea shell, post card, monument replica, Indian bracelet, etc. Souvenirs are divided randomly into 6 baskets, and the class into 6 groups. Each group is given a basket of souvenirs band told to brainstorm on possible locations each souvenir represents. Each group must reach a consensus on the best predicted location and provide a rationale for its choice.
Evaluation: Involvement of students and completion of task.