I taught the Freshman class for the third time this week. Last week, one of the young men suggested that the class teach seminary. The regular seminary teacher agreed that they could each do a mini-lesson on a subject of their choosing. She called to let me know that Wednesday was the day.
Hurray! I didn't have to prepare a lesson! (Of course, I did have a back-up plan in case we finished early.)
On Monday I reminded the class about their mini-teaching assignment. Some of the students looked at me blankly. This did not look promising.
On Tuesday, I gave each student a handout with suggestions on how to prepare a mini-lesson. It read:
Topic:
Scripture or quote from General Authority:
Personal Experience or Story:
Conclusion (may include your testimony):
There was much moaning and groaning and gnashing of teeth when they realized they would REALLY HAVE TO TEACH!
As the students left the class, I reminded them once again that I was looking forward to their mini-lessons the next day.
One young man said, "I'm going to talk about pornography."
Another young man said, "I am going to talk about pornography, too."
A third and a fourth young man said, "That's what I want to talk about, also."
I sweetly smiled. (I knew they were looking for a reaction and I was NOT going to give them one.) "That's fine. But remember, you must use a scripture or a quote from a General Authority, share a story or a personal experience, and have a conclusion." They looked slightly chagrined.
Today, two young men (not four) did talk about pornography. They shared either a quote from President Hinckley or read from "For the Strength of Youth." They each shared a personal experience where they were at a friend's house and either saw an inappropriate web site or an inappropriate movie. They each shared a conclusion and one shared his testimony.
Even though they chose this topic as an attention getter, I am proud of them for doing so well! And if reading the counsel from a prophet of God strengthens them or members of the class, I would say that it was a success!
I can totally imagine you smiling sweetly and not giving them a reaction. Too funny! I'm glad it turned out well!
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