Lesson Plan: New Topic - Resurrection in the Gospels
Lesson Overview
In this lesson, Year 8 students will explore the theme of Resurrection as depicted in the Gospels of the New Testament. This session will focus on understanding the significance of the Resurrection and its impact on Christianity.
Objectives
- To learn about the narratives of the Resurrection in the Gospels.
- To discuss the theological implications of the Resurrection.
- To engage creatively with the material through group activities.
Lesson Part: New Topic Introduction
Step 1: Introduction (10 minutes)
Begin the lesson by briefly discussing the concept of Resurrection in general terms. Ask the students:
- What does Resurrection mean to you?
- Why do you think it is an important topic in Christianity?
Use this discussion to introduce the key idea: The Resurrection of Jesus is central to Christian faith as it signifies hope, renewal, and the promise of eternal life.
Step 2: Gospels Overview (15 minutes)
Provide a concise overview of the accounts of the Resurrection in the four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John):
- Matthew (28:1-10): Describe the women discovering the empty tomb and the angel announcing Jesus' resurrection.
- Mark (16:1-8): Summarise the brief message delivered by the young man in the tomb.
- Luke (24:1-12): Explain the details of the encounters with the risen Jesus and the significance of the two men in dazzling clothes.
- John (20:1-18): Highlight the personal encounter between Mary Magdalene and the risen Jesus.
Step 3: Group Activity - "Resurrection Story Collage" (25 minutes)
Materials Needed:
- A3 paper or large poster boards
- Markers, coloured pencils, scissors, and glue
- Printed images or quotes from the Gospel accounts (prepare in advance)
Activity Outline:
- Divide students into small groups (4-5 students per group).
- Each group will select one Gospel account of the Resurrection to focus on.
- Using the materials provided, groups will create a collage that captures the essence of their chosen Gospel's Resurrection narrative.
- Include images, key quotes, and their own artistic interpretations of the text.
- Encourage creativity: they can illustrate the scene, write a brief summary, or use symbols that represent their understanding of the Resurrection.
- After 15 minutes, have each group present their collage to the class, explaining the significance of their Gospel account.
Step 4: Class Discussion (10 minutes)
After presentations, reconvene as a class to facilitate a discussion:
- What similarities and differences did we see in the different Gospel accounts?
- How do these stories contribute to our understanding of Jesus' resurrection?
- Why is it important to have multiple perspectives on this event?
Step 5: Conclusion (5 minutes)
Wrap up the lesson by tying together the themes discussed. Emphasise the idea that the Resurrection is not just a historical event but a foundational belief that informs Christian spirituality and ethical living.
Homework Assignment
Ask students to write a reflective piece on what the Resurrection means to them personally or to summarise a Gospel account in their own words, discussing its impact on their understanding of Jesus.
By blending discussion, creativity, and collaboration, this lesson aims to deepen students' understanding of the Resurrection in the Gospels while engaging them interactively with the material.