IN THIS LESSON, YOU WILL FOLLOW AN EXAMPLE OF HOW TO ENGAGE DIFFERENT SENSES IN A LESSON

This example explores the ways in which we could add layers of sensory stimulation to a single lesson.

The primary source and focus of this lesson is James Baldwin’s The Fire Next Time.

Consider all the senses when creating content to introduce a lesson. In this introduction to James Baldwin's The Fire Next Time, we can provide context by exploring various aspects of the year 1963, the year the book was published.

Connect the text to current events to help learners understand how Baldwin is still relevant in today’s current political climate and culture.

Use media to help engage learners and connect them to the topic. For example, for a discussion on Baldwin, we can share documentaries or conversations he has had with other historical figures.

Diversify the range of voices learners can hear by asking volunteers to read excerpts from The Fire Next Time out loud.

Play music from James Baldwin’s era. In this exercise, I used Miles Davis’ “So What?” because of the friendship these two artists had with each other. I also chose this song because it is an instrumental piece that is open to interpretation.

Incorporate media that learners can listen to while they are exercising, driving, or doing chores. Podcasts are a great example. Because learners do not have to be sitting down in front of an instructor or a computer, learners can stay active but still learn, subconsciously.

Ask learners to draw from their own lived experiences to make deeper, more personal connections to the topic.

It is important to give people time to process the information they have absorbed. Reflection is great for this.

I encourage all learners, including myself, to set aside time to contemplate what we have learned and jot down a few thoughts about it. This exercise also enhances our memory.

Our lessons never truly end. We can continue to dig into a topic by sharing different experiences and by exploring it through different angles. Encourage learners to keep exploring.