Building Blocks for Integrated Studies

Transcription

1 Building Blocks for Integrated Studies The following ideas for classroom topics can be mixed and matched to build a wholeschool curriculum for integrated studies (Science, History, Geography, SOSE, Health, Art). In order to receive the greatest blessing and positive spiritual growth in students and staff, have the whole school study the same spiritual theme the same time and select classroom topics that correspond. The attributes outlined in this document are: Main Spiritual Themes God is: Related attributes Related topics A Powerful Creator A Loving Provider Patient and Kind Wisdom and Truth 1 Lord and King Shepherd, Faithful, Love, Father Patient; Self-controlled; Kind; Gentle; Forgiving Our guide; Our rock air; water; animals; birds; marine life; plants; solar system; human biology farming; electricity; food; clothes; forestry; soil; myself; my family; my country; weather; nations cultural studies; human conflict; explorers; pioneers; friends; growth & change; occupations; sounds & communication advertising; archaeology; force and motion; fossils; health & safety; laws and customs; natural disasters; transport Pure and Holy Good, Perfect, Forgiving cleaning up; crystals & gemstones; heat; light and colour; pollution; chemistry; fruit of the A Powerful Protector Peace, Preserver Spirit; Great Flood animals; community services; environmental protection; lighthouses; our special planet; shelter; blood & immune system A Humble Servant Meek; Humble; Healer community services; machines & transport; missionaries; scientists; aged & disabled; medical Redeemer, Life, Peace Light; Just; Merciful; Gracious; Joy; a Person profession life cycles; living/nonliving; racial and national peace; water; times & seasons; the Great Commission

2 Topic Attributes of God Page Advertising & consumer Wisdom and Truth 11 education Air Redeemer, Life. Peace 14 Animal Farming Loving provider 16 Animal protective mechanisms Powerful Protector 18 Animals classification Powerful Creator 21 Archeology Wisdom and Truth 23 Australian Aboriginal culture Patient and kind / forgiving 25 Australian explorers Patient and kind / persevering 28 Australian pioneers Humble Servant 31 Birds Powerful Creator 33 Cleaning up Pure and Holy 35 Community services 1 - police Powerful Protector 37 Community services 2 fire Humble servant 39 and ambulance Creation or evolution? Truth / Creator 41 Crystals and gemstones Pure and Holy 43 Cultural studies Patient and Kind 46 Electricity Loving Provider 48 Fibres and Fabrics Loving Provider 50 Food Loving Provider 52 Force and Motion - pendulums Wisdom and Truth 56 Forests and Forestry Loving Provider 59 Fossils Creator / Truth 61 Friends Patient and Kind 63 God s Caretaker s / Creator / Powerful Protector 66 Endangered Species Government Pure and Holy 68 Growing Things / soils/ crops Loving Provider 70 Growth and Change Patient and Kind 73 Health and hygiene Powerful Protector 76 Heat Pure and Holy 78 History - Pioneers Patient and Kind 80 Human Biology 1 Powerful Creator 83 Human Biology 2 Blood / Powerful Protector 85 Immune Landforms Powerful Creator 87 Laws and Customs Wisdom and Truth 89 Life Cycles Redeemer, Life, Peace 92 Light Powerful Creator 94 Light and Colour Pure and Holy / Light 96 Lighthouses and Sea Voyages Powerful Protector 99 Living and Non-living / Pets Redeemer, Life, Peace 101 Machines, Transport & Humble Servant 103 Technology Marine Life Powerful Creator 105 Me Loving Provider

3 Minibeasts Powerful Creator / Wisdom 110 Missionaries Humble servant 113 My country Loving Provider 115 My home / my family Loving Provider 116 Nations of the World Loving Provider 120 Natural Disasters Wisdom 122 Occupations and Hobbies 1 Patient and Kind 124 Occupations and Hobbies 2 Humble Servant / Pure, Holy 126 Our Special Planet Powerful Protector 128 Plants Powerful Creator 130 Pollution, Environmental Pure and Holy 132 Conservation Racial and National Peace Redeemer, Life, Peace 135 Rivers, Glaciers, Water Cycle Redeemer, Life, Peace 137 Rocks Powerful Creator 139 Safety God is Wisdom 141 Scientists 1 Truth 143 Scientists 2 Humble Servant 146 Shelter Powerful Protector 148 Solar System Powerful Creator 153 Solutions, Mixtures and Pure and Holy 155 Suspensions Sound and Communication Patient and Kind 157 Special Communities: aged, Humble Servant 160 disabled The Fruit of the Spirit Pure and Holy 162 The Great Commission Redeemer, Life, Peace 164 The Great Flood Pure and Holy 167 The History of the World Redeemer, Life, Peace 171 The Medical Profession Humble Servant 174 The Romans Redeemer, Life, Peace 176 The Senses Truth 178 Times and Seasons Redeemer, Life, Peace 180 Transport, Explorers, Wisdom and Truth 182 Navigation Water Powerful Creator 184 Weather Loving Provider

4 God is a Powerful Creator God is the creator of the universe supernatural a designer a miracle worker a healer Lord and King of the universe 8 major themes Our response to 'God is a Powerful Creator' Because God is a Powerful Creator, I will Walk in the Light, because God is light. Live a life that is good, honest and true. Appreciate God's ability to supernaturally create. Ask God to help me create new things, so that I can bless others. Trust in a mighty, supernatural God. Care for the universe He has created. Appreciate the greatness of God and recognize that He is in control of all He has made. Thank Him for His provision, through the Creation. Recognize that I am wonderfully made and thank Him for making me as I am. Recognize that God is Lord and King of the universe and has everything in control. Recognize that in order to be the person God wants me to be, I must make Jesus Lord and King of my own life. God is a Loving Provider God is loving kind a shepherd a father a provider a healer a person faithful Our response to 'God is a Loving Provider' Because God is a Loving Provider I will Love God Love others Forgive others Be kind and patient with others Help others 4

5 Thank God for the things He provides Thank my parents for the things they provide Share with others the things that God has provided. God is Patient and Kind God is patient loving kind gentle forgiving a shepherd a father a friend self-controlled persevering Our response to 'God is Patient and Kind' Because God is patient and kind, I will try to be patient with others try to be patient with myself remember that God will answer my prayers in His time finish jobs properly and not take short-cuts persevere and not give up when things get difficult show self-control show kindness and gentleness to others learn to listen learn to wait learn to let others go first help people when they are hurting be friendly be forgiving be faithful God is Wisdom and Truth God is The only true God Just The Way, the Truth, the Life Faithful to His word The source of wisdom A wise guide A sure foundation Our response to 'God is Wisdom and Truth' Because God is Wisdom I will Ask God what is the right thing to do, and do it. Listen to people who are wiser than me. Listen to my parents and teachers. 5

6 Obey God's word. Do what Jesus would do. Ask Jesus to be the guide throughout my life. Treat God's Creation with wisdom. Because God is Truth I will Speak the truth Be honest Never cheat Never steal Never lie or exaggerate Be trustworthy Be true to my word and keep promises. Be myself and not try to be someone I am not. Ask God to show me the truth. Ask the Holy Spirit to lead and guide me into all truth. Believe that God's word is the truth. Believe that Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life. God is Pure and Holy God is righteous good a judge without sin perfect Our response to 'God is Pure and Holy' Because God is Pure and Holy I will Obey Him. Try to do the things He wants me to do. Ask God to forgive me when I sin. Ask Him to make me clean inside. Admit when I make mistakes. Remember the fruits of the Spirit and try to show them in my life. Have respect for other people. Put God first in my life. 6

7 God is a Powerful Protector God is A Father Lord and King A shepherd Great and mighty A rock One we can trust One who keeps us safe Our response to 'God is a Powerful Protector' Because God is a Powerful Protector I will trust God have faith have peace not be afraid because He is with me give my worries to God do what God asks me to do believe that God will do as He says put on the armour of God to protect me against the enemy Some educators would prefer to avoid teaching about God's protection because in reality, there are times when God does not protect. Rather than avoiding the issue we should seek answers. Firstly, God does not protect when we do not observe His statutes. Secondly, we are in a battle and sometimes there are casualties. Thirdly, we are in a fallen world, and our physical bodies do not live forever. (God has appointed a time for each person to die.) Regardless, there is overwhelming evidence to prove that God does protect His children when they trust in Him. The Bible is full of examples, and encourages us to claim protection. God is a Humble Servant God is humble a healer a helper faithful Our response to 'God is a Humble Servant' Because God is a humble servant I will follow the example of Jesus, the greatest servant be willing to help others consider the needs of others put others before myself let others go first not boast not think of myself as being more important than everyone else admit when I am wrong allow others to help me 7

8 God is our Redeemer, Life and Peace God is Our redeemer Our Saviour Our Joy A Preserver Merciful Gracious Forgiving Our response to 'God is our Redeemer' Because God is my redeemer I will Ask Jesus to forgive me for my sin Invite Him to live in my life Make Jesus Lord of my life Live with Him forever Thank Him for what He did on the cross Thank Him that I am His child Tell others that they can have eternal life 8

9 Overview of topics, grouped under the 8 major themes God is a Powerful Creator God created each of the following, in just six 24-hour days. Students should know the day of creation for each of these: Animals (land) Birds Fossils Human Biology 1 Light Marine Life Mini-beasts Plants Rocks Solar System Water Loving Provider God, in His great loves, provides in the following ways: Animal Farming Electricity Fibres and Fabrics Food Forests and Forestry Growing Things / soils/ crops Weather and provides for: Me My country My home / my family Nations of the World Patient and Kind Culture contact / cultural differences (Cultural conflict in the history of a nation s history; the need for forgiveness, patience and kindness on the part of each group) Explorers (Their success was always due to the patience and perseverance they showed.) Friends (How to be a good friend) Growth and Change (Patience with ourselves as we grow, and face new challenges) History Pioneers (Patience and perseverance shown by people of the past) Occupations and Hobbies 1 (Patience in mastering skills) Sound and Communication (Patience in listening and communicating) 9

10 God is Wisdom and Truth Advertising & consumer education (Who is telling the truth?) Archeology (Discovering the truth through archaeology) Creation or evolution? (How to stand up for the truth) Force and Motion (Science can help us understand the truth about the universe) Safety (Wisdom in following rules for safety) Laws and Customs (Wisdom in obeying laws) Natural Disasters (Wisdom in being prepared) Scientists 1 (Scientists who have stood for the truth) The Senses (Discovering the truth about matter by using the senses) Pure and Holy Cleaning up (Our responsibility to maintain a clean environment) Crystals and gemstones (Heaven is a place of purity, a city clear as crystal) Government (God s laws are perfect.) Heat (Heat is used for refining and purifying) Light and Colour (Walk in the light as He is in the light) Pollution & Environment (What happened to God s perfect creation?) Solutions, Mixtures and Suspensions (Methods for purifying water) The Fruit of the Spirit (Required for a pure Christian life) The Great Flood (God s judgment on a world destroying itself) Powerful Protector Animal protective mechanisms (How animals protect themselves) Community services police (People in the community who protect us) God s Caretaker s / Endangered Species (Our responsibility to protect the Creation) Health and Hygiene (How we protect ourselves against disease) Human Biology 2 Blood / Immune (Protective mechanisms within the human body) Lighthouses and Sea Voyages (Protection for ships) Our Special Planet (Protection God has provided for the existence of life) Shelter (How people protect themselves from the elements) Humble Servant Australian pioneers (Early white settlers served us in preparing the way for development) Community services fire and ambulance (Community servants) Machines, Transport & Technology (Technology serves us in spreading the Good news) Mini-beasts (Community insects serve the community) Missionaries (Serving God and others, often sacrificially) Occupations and Hobbies 2 (We can serve with our time and talents) Scientists 2 (Christian scientists serve God.) Special Communities: aged, disabled (We can help others.) The Medical Profession (People who help us) God is Redeemer, Life, Peace Air (Without air life cannot exist.) Life Cycles (Symbolic of new life) Living and Non-living / Pets (God gives life and joy) Racial and National Peace (Peacemakers) Rivers, glaciers, water cycle, river settlements, deserts (Water sustains life) The Great Commission (New Life in Jesus for all nations) The History of the World (God is in charge of His world) Times and Seasons (Our times are in His hands) 10

11 Advertising /Choices and Decisions God is Wisdom and Truth Spiritual Awareness: Wise choices and decisions Throughout life we are constantly faced with making choices and decisions. Choices can be right or wrong. In order to make wise choices, and right choices, we need to rely on the Holy Spirit who can guide us into all truth. Discernment of truth is necessary in making decisions. This is something we acquire as we learn to hear God's voice. Our response to 'God is Wisdom and Truth' Because God is Wisdom I will Ask God what is the right thing to do, and do it. Listen to people who are wiser than me. Listen to my parents and teachers. Obey God's word. Do what Jesus would do. Ask Jesus to be the guide throughout my life. Treat God's Creation with wisdom. Supporting devotional resource Themes for Christian Studies 4: (Wise): God's wisdom is better than being rich Themes for Christian Studies 7: (Wise): The wisest choice Themes for Christian Studies 6, (Truth): Jesus, the way, the truth and the life Biblical references Proverbs 3:5-8 - Trust in the Lord with all your heart. James 1:5 - Ask God for wisdom. Proverbs 2: Only the Lord gives wisdom. 1 Corinthians 3: The wisdom of this world is foolishness to God. Genesis 11 - The people who built the tower of Babel relied on their own wisdom. Psalm 16:7-8 - The importance of allowing God to guide us. Proverbs 1: Ask for God's wisdom in making decisions. Proverbs 8:11 - Wisdom is better than riches. Matthew 19: The rich young ruler's choice. Joshua 24: A choice between the true God and false gods. John 16:12 - When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth. Matthew 10:38; Matthew 16:24 - The greatest decision we can make. Matthew 7: The broad and narrow way. John 14:6-7 - I am the Way, the Truth, the Life. John 10:1-8 - The Good Shepherd. The sheep recognise His voice. John 18:37 - Everyone who is of the truth hears my voice. a) Making wise choices and decisions Key Questions Which foods / toys / clothes would you choose? 11

12 Who would you choose for a friend? Which choices are the most important ones? What kinds of choices does God ask us to make? How do we know whether something is good or evil? How can I know the right decisions to make? Objectives Students will List choices and decisions we make every day e.g. friends, food, clothes. List choices and decisions that our parents make. List the major decisions we have to make in life. Choose foods / clothes / toys from catalogues and tally the amount you spend. Choose a holiday after studying travel brochures and write a report on the place you intend to visit. Discuss the way in which we recognise good and evil. Discuss the decisions that teenagers have to make. Make a list of good and bad influences on teenagers e.g. drugs, alcohol, vandalism, or, good books, good friends, music, sport. Invite a health speaker to outline the impact of smoking on our bodies. Invite someone with a testimony about his / her freedom from drugs, or read Keryn's Story, Themes 7, God is Life. Research a career that is of interest, and present a report to the class. b) Consumer Education Key Questions Do advertisements always tell the truth? Which products do I ask Mum to buy? Do I ask for the products in the advertisements? Does advertising make me want to buy more? How do advertisements get us to buy things we don't really need? Should I buy something just because it is cheap? What is the meaning of good value? Objectives Students will explain the purpose of advertisements. explain the techniques used to increase product sales. recognise whether or not advertisements are telling the truth. recognise the tactics advertising companies use to deceive the consumer. Activities Collect newspaper / magazine advertisements. Describe / report on T.V. advertisements. Report on what is being advertised. Describe the techniques used in the advertisements. How do they get people's attention? Describe the purpose of the advertisements. Suggest the particular audience the advertisement is targeting. Measure the time taken by advertisements in half an hour of viewing. 12

13 Estimate the types of products that are advertised the most. Rate advertisements according to their degree of truthfulness i.e. helpful / partly true / untrue. Explain why some advertisements are not really true. Do they exaggerate? Explain why some advertisements can be helpful. Mime a T.V. advertisement. Make a collection of jingles. Write a jingle. Have a competition to match jingles to products. Conduct experiments to see whether advertisers are telling the truth e.g. does the washing powder really whiten? Make a list of words used by advertisers that encourage us to buy things e.g. 'sale'; 'buy one and get one free'. Conduct surveys to find the popularity of different products or brands. Conduct surveys to find out why people buy particular products. Collect empty packets and set up a shop. Price the packets and decide which products are the best value for money. Make a table: The things I need to buy in: summer, autumn, winter, spring. Compare this to the extra things I could buy each season, but don't really need. Make a list of foods we really need, and those we don't really need. Act out a shopping experience. Explain why you chose a particular item e.g. colour, style, your Mum liked it. 13

14 Air God is Redeemer, Life, Peace Spiritual Awareness Air supports life. God gives the requirements for life, and spiritual life. We need God as we need the air we breathe. God has placed within the creation powerful forces, which are available for the use of mankind. Air is a powerful force for moving objects. Our response to 'God is a Powerful Creator' Because God is a Powerful Creator, I will Walk in the Light, because God is light. Live a life that is good, honest and true. Appreciate God's ability to supernaturally create. Ask God to help me create new things, so that I can bless others. Trust in a mighty, supernatural God. Care for the universe He has created. Appreciate the greatness of God and recognize that He is in control of all He has made. Thank Him for His provision, through the Creation. Recognize that I am wonderfully made and thank Him for making me as I am. Recognize that God is Lord and King of the universe and has everything in control. Recognize that in order to be the person God wants me to be, I must make Jesus Lord and King of my own life. Supporting devotional resource Themes for Christian Studies 5 & 7, (Life): God is the sustainer of life (air) Key questions Why is air a powerful force? (sustains life; moves things) Biblical references Genesis 1 The creation Mark 4: Jesus calms the storm (wind) Acts 2 The disciples receive the Holy Spirit wind representing power. Exodus God sustained the Israelites in the wilderness. God sustains life through air. Matthew 6:25-34 Life is more important than food. Matthew 4:4 Man shall not live by bread alone. Objectives 14

15 Students will show that air exerts pressure and can be used for moving things. observe the effects of moving air. measure the strength of moving air. demonstrate ways in which air can move solids and liquids. Activities Experiments to show that air exerts pressure: Fill a drinking glass to the brim and place cardboard over it. While holding the cardboard against the glass, turn the glass upside down. Take hand away and cardboard will remain. Experiment with moving things by blowing: Blow ping pong balls across a table. Make a yacht and move it across water by blowing the sail. Make a siphon to show how air pressure can move liquids. Measure and record wind strength on different days. Use wind to move things, e.g. kites. Compare wind direction and direction of object's movement. Predict how an object may move, depending on wind strength and direction. Observe the effects of moving air. Measure and record wind strength on different days using a wind speed indicator

16 Animal Farming God is a Loving Provider Spiritual Awareness: God cares for the creation God has provided animals for our use. He has given us authority over the animal kingdom, and with this authority comes responsibility. Christians need to form a viewpoint on the treatment of animals in some modern agricultural practices. The care and protection of the shepherd in Biblical times is an illustration of the love, care and protection that Jesus has for us. Our response to 'God is a Loving Provider' Because God is a Loving Provider I will Love God Love others Forgive others Be kind and patient with others Help others Thank God for the things He provides Thank my parents for the things they provide Share with others the things that God has provided. Supporting devotional resource Themes for Christian Studies 1, (Love): God is a loving and faithful shepherd Themes for Christian Studies 4, (Provider): God is a caring provider Themes for Christian Studies 5, (Provider): God is a faithful provider Biblical references John 10 - The Good Shepherd. Psalm 23 - The Lord is my shepherd. Luke 15 - The lost sheep. Matthew 6:26 - God's care for animals and more so for us Luke 12:6-7; Matthew 10: We are of more value than many sparrows. Key Questions How do animals help provide for our needs? How do people provide for the needs of animals? How does God want us to treat animals? What is a shepherd? How did the shepherd look after his sheep in Bible times? How does Jesus, our shepherd look after us? Objectives Students will understand that God has provided animals to meet our needs understand the reason for animal husbandry 16

17 appreciate needs of farm animals and to understand how they are cared for appreciate the diversity of farm animals Activities Classify animals into categories of wild / domestic; pets / farm animals. Visit a farm. Make a list of products from farm animals. Describe how some animals help the farmer e.g. cattle / sheep dogs; horses. Investigate how farm animals care for their young. Discuss the needs of farm animals and the farmer's role in meeting these needs. Discuss the role of a vet. Make a yearly calendar showing changes if farm activities from season to season. Make a chart showing a day in the life of the farmer. Compare lifestyle of people groups who hunt for food with farmers who raise animals for meat. Compare sheep farming today with Biblical times. Research the processes involved in animal products, from farm to consumer e.g. leather, wool, meat. Discuss the Christian response to issues such as cloning, hormone supplementation, battery hens and genetic modification. Additional Beacon Media Resource Visual Language Unit: Farming 17

18 Animal protective mechanisms God is a Powerful Protector Spiritual Awareness: God protects us from danger Before the Fall there was no need for animals to protect themselves. All animals lived in peace and were vegetarian. "The world before the Fall had no death, disease or struggle. Nowadays, many creatures have equipment which is apparently designed to attack, hurt, trap, kill, or eat others, or to defend themselves against such things So when and how did these things, which are suited to a fallen world but were unnecessary before the Fall, come to be? There is no single position which would be agreed upon by all creationists in answer to this Position 1: Those things that are now used as defence-attack structures were not designed for this purpose, and had different functions, pre-fall. They reached their present function by degeneration, e.g. mutations. Position 2: The design information for defense-attack structures was already present before the Fall, perhaps in latent or masked form. This implies that the Fall was foreknown by God, which of course reflects His omniscience This information was allowed to come to expression, either through direct unmasking at the Fall, or through the natural processes of recombination and selection. Another possibility is that no new creatures were created, but many existing ones were redesigned after the Fall, with the addition of new design information into their DNA." From The Answers Book by Ken Ham, Andrew Snelling and Carl Weiland Our response to 'God is a Powerful Protector' Because God is a Powerful Protector I will trust God have faith have peace not be afraid because He is with me give my worries to God do what God asks me to do believe that God will do as He says put on the armour of God to protect me against the enemy Some educators would prefer to avoid teaching about God's protection because in reality, there are times when God does not protect. Rather than avoiding the issue we should seek answers. Firstly, God does not protect when we do not observe His statutes. Secondly, we are in a battle and sometimes there are casualties. Thirdly, we are in a fallen world, and our physical bodies do not live forever. (God has appointed a time for each person to die.) Regardless, there is overwhelming evidence to prove that God does protect His children when they trust in Him. The Bible is full of examples, and encourages us to claim protection. Supporting devotional resource Themes for Christian Studies Level 5, (Protector): God protects us from harm and evil 18

19 Biblical references Psalm 91 - Angels protect us Psalm 23 - The Lord is my Shepherd Ephesians 6: The armour of God 2 Kings 6 - Elisha and God's army of angels Psalm 4:8 - God makes us dwell in safety Psalm 27 - The Lord is my light, whom shall I fear? Isaiah 41:10 - Fear no for I am with you. Isaiah 43:10 - You will walk through the fire and not be burned. Daniel 3 - Three men in the fiery furnace. Acts 5:29 - We ought to obey God rather than men. Key Question How do animals protect themselves? Why has God designed camouflage? Why do animals need to protect themselves? Did animals need to protect themselves before the Fall? Do you think animals had bites, stings and camouflage before the Fall? How is God able to protect us? Does He protect everyone? Should we pray for protection? How does the armour of God protect us? What do angels do? Objectives Students will research animal defense-attack structures observe animal camouflage study animals with protective shells or exo-skeletons research ways in which parent animals protect their young Activities a) Defense and attack structures List animals that attack, and the way they attack. List animals that need to defend themselves, and the way they defend. List animals that use camouflage. Classify animals according to camouflage markings e.g. spots, stripes Match animals to camouflage backgrounds. Observe animals that use camouflage e.g. frogs, caterpillars Draw animals camouflaged against their backgrounds. Make a chart of venomous snakes, spiders or sea creatures. Discuss necessary safety precautions to avoid bites and stings. Make a study of seashore life and describe outer forms of protection and defense mechanisms, e.g. bi-valves and uni-valves, crustaceans, sea anemones, starfish, sea eggs, barnacles. Visit a beach, preferably one that has rock pools. 19

20 b) Animal parenting Observe animal homes and discuss the way they are built to protect the young. Classify and name types of animal homes. Discuss protective behaviour of parent animals, especially birds at nesting time. Differentiate roles of mother and father in particular animal species e.g. compare penguin to other birds. Research different birth processes e.g. mammals, marsupials, birds, reptiles, fish. Observe animals feeding their offspring. 20

21 Animal classification and locomotion Creation Day 6 God is a Powerful Creator Spiritual Awareness God created each animal according to its own kind. This meant that there were animal families, such as dogs, cats, horses. Each of the animals created in the Garden of Eden had a large genetic pool, giving rise to a great variety of animals within the particular animal family. However, there was no interbreeding between kinds. This meant that one species could not develop into another. The genetic information for each kind was unique. Our response to 'God is a Powerful Creator' Because God is a Powerful Creator, I will Walk in the Light, because God is light. Live a life that is good, honest and true. Appreciate God's ability to supernaturally create. Ask God to help me create new things, so that I can bless others. Trust in a mighty, supernatural God. Care for the universe He has created. Appreciate the greatness of God and recognize that He is in control of all He has made. Thank Him for His provision, through the Creation. Recognize that I am wonderfully made and thank Him for making me as I am. Recognize that God is Lord and King of the universe and has everything in control. Recognize that in order to be the person God wants me to be, I must make Jesus Lord and King of my own life. Supporting devotional resource Themes for Christian Studies 6 & 7, (Creator): God is a perfect Creator Biblical references: Genesis 1 The Creation Genesis Noah s Ark Mark 11: Jesus rode an untamed donkey 1 Kings 17: Elijah fed by ravens Genesis 1:24 God commanded, Let the earth produce all kinds of animal life.. Psalm 150:6 Praise the Lord all living creatures. Psalm 148:9-10 Praise him all animals, tame and wild, reptiles and birds. Job 40:15-18 Behemoth (a dinosaur?) Key questions What is the spiritual difference between humans and animals? How do we identify body, soul and spirit? 21

22 Do animals have a personality? Who spoiled God's perfect creation? Does God have a rescue plan? What was the world like before the fall? Were all animals once vegetarian? How much responsibility has God given to man concerning animals? How can we be God's caretakers? What can people do today to help preserve endangered species of animals? What evidence can we give for the supernatural act of creation? Could God create the universe in six 24-hour days, or isn't He that powerful? Did dinosaurs and humans live at the same time on the earth? What happened to the dinosaurs? How can we convince someone that man did not evolve from apes? Objectives Students will classify animals within the major groups, understanding that animals were created after their own kind. understand that the variety of animals we see today developed from a large gene pool, present in the animals aboard Noah's Ark. observe structural and behavioural characteristics of animals. understand our responsibility in caring for animals. Activities Classify animals: reptiles, mammals, marsupials, fish, birds, amphibians. Classify according: domestic animals and wild animals; pets and farm animals; pets and wild animals. Classify animals within their families e.g. different types of cats, dogs. Compare structural characteristics - eyes, ears, wings, limbs, teeth, beaks. Make collections of animals hair, fur, feathers, skin. Visit zoo. Classify animals according to locomotion structures. Estimate speeds of various animals and compare these speeds using graphs. Give examples of where man has copied God's strategies and designs for locomotion in His creation. Collect photographs and drawings of animals. Observe wildlife videos. Discuss the reasons for animal extinction. Find out what is being done to protect endangered species. Discuss importance of animals to man. Discuss the value of pets and responsibilities in caring for them. Additional student resource Visual Language Unit: Animals 22

23 Archaeology God is Wisdom and Truth Spiritual Awareness: Build your life on the truth Archaeology involves searching for truth about the past. It is often used to attack Biblical history, but there are recognized archaeologists who present us with evidence that the findings of archaeology in the Middle East consistently corroborate Biblical history. Our response to 'God is Wisdom and Truth' Because God is Wisdom I will Ask God what is the right thing to do, and do it. Listen to people who are wiser than me. Listen to my parents and teachers. Obey God's word. Do what Jesus would do. Ask Jesus to be the guide throughout my life. Treat God's Creation with wisdom. Because God is Truth I will Speak the truth Be honest Never cheat Never steal Never lie or exaggerate Be trustworthy Be true to my word and keep promises. Be myself and not try to be someone I am not. Ask God to show me the truth. Ask the Holy Spirit to lead and guide me into all truth. Believe that God's word is the truth. Believe that Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life. Supporting devotional resource Themes for Christian Studies 7, (Truth): True or false? Biblical references Matthew 7:24 - Build your life on truth. Luke 11: Ask, seek, knock. He that seeks the truth will find it. Matthew 6:33 - Seek first God's kingdom. Matthew 13: The pearl of great price. John 20: Unbelief prevented Thomas from knowing the truth. John 1:17 - Truth came through Jesus Christ. John 16:13 - When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth. Key Questions How do we know what is true? What evidence is there that the Bible is true? 23

24 Why is it important to know the truth? What do we have to do if we want to find out the truth? How can we seek for truth? How does the Biblical evidence for a young earth conflict with the long ages that some archaeologists present? What evidence do Christian archaeologists give to show that the Bible is true? Why do you think some archaeologists would like to prove the Bible false? Objectives Students will understand the types of objects archaeologists investigate when studying the lives of early people explain how scientists locate, survey and excavate sites investigate underwater excavations describe famous finds Activities List the types of objects that archaeologists investigate e.g. artifacts, features and ecofacts. Conduct a simulated 'dig', (set up by teacher), complete with layers of simulated artifacts. Students 'find', describe, label, date and interpret objects. Discuss and research the activities of archaeologists. Examine photos and watch videos of famous archaeological finds. Research some famous finds e.g. Dead Sea Scrolls, Tutenkhamen's tomb, Schliemann and Troy, army of statues found near Xian in China, Yucatan pyramids, Australian Aboriginal middens, Abraham's Ur, Machu Pichu, Pompeii, Jerusalem, Egypt, Easter Islands, Knosos. Make a list of findings related to Biblical history e.g. excavations of Jericho, Ur, Jerusalem, Corinth, Ephesus, Rome, Capernaum. Mark famous archaeological finds on a world map. 24

25 Australian Aboriginal Culture God is Patient and Kind Spiritual Awareness: God is forgiving, patient and kind Racial tolerance is all about patience and kindness. Each respective culture needs patience in understanding the other. Each culture needs to view cultural differences through the eyes of Christ. How did Jesus relate to those who were different? Culture contact in the history of Australia has caused conflict between European and Aboriginal Australians. Part of this conflict has occurred because of wrong attitudes on the part of the Europeans. In the early 1900's, due to the acceptance of Darwin's theory of evolution, Europeans regarded Aboriginal people as 'the missing link' between apes and humans. Aboriginal people were shot like animals, their children taken from them and their culture devalued. As a result of this treatment, many Aboriginal people have suffered from problems of low self-esteem. The mistakes of the past have had a severe impact on the Aboriginal people of today. The blame for these mistakes has been placed upon missionaries of the day, when in fact government institutions were largely responsible. Col Stringer writes, in Discovering Australia's Christian Heritage: "People are quick to write and voice their horror about how the early church and professing Christians mistreated Aborigines.However, one must remember the days in which these people lived were far different from those of today's 'enlightened' society. A sadly neglected fact is that it was most often these very men and women of God that helped those who were being oppressed, often standing between them and a violent death at the hand of some bloodthirsty mob." There is now a desperate need for white Australians to show Aboriginal people that they are truly sorry for what has happened in the past, and for God's love to be shared. Aboriginal people need to feel that they are valued people and recognized for all they have to contribute to our society. Our response to 'God is Patient and Kind' Because God is patient and kind, I will try to be patient with others try to be patient with myself remember that God will answer my prayers in His time finish jobs properly and not take short-cuts persevere and not give up when things get difficult show self-control show kindness and gentleness to others learn to listen learn to wait learn to let others go first help people when they are hurting be friendly be forgiving 25

26 be faithful Supporting devotional resource Themes for Christian Studies 5, (Love): God wants us to love others Themes for Christian Studies 7, (Patient): God is patient with us Themes for Christian Studies 7, (Creator): God is a perfect creator Biblical references Matthew 18:21-22; Colossians 3:12-13; Ephesians 4:32 - We should forgive one another. John 3:16 - God's love for the whole world. Acts 10 - Peter called to the Gentiles. 1 John 3: Love one another in word and deed. Luke 10: The Good Samaritan Luke 10:27; Matthew 22:39 - Love the Lord with all your heart and your neighbour as yourself. 1 Corinthians 13:14 - Love is patient and kind. Acts 10:34 - God treats everyone on the same basis. James 2:1-9 - Warning against prejudice. John 13:34 - A new commandment love one another. Key Questions Who were the first Australians? Where did Aboriginal people come from and how did they get to Australia? Why were Aboriginal people killed, or pushed into the desert regions by some of the Early White settlers? What does God think about Aboriginal people? What do Aboriginal people think about white people? What can we learn from Aboriginal people? How can Christians show God's love towards Aboriginal people? Objectives Students will develop an awareness and an understanding of the elements of traditional Australian Aboriginal Culture. understand the unique relationship of Aboriginal people with the land. understand some of the impact that Early European settlement had upon Aboriginal people. recognize why conflict arose between Aboriginal people and Early European settlers and how this has affected contemporary Australian society. Activities Research traditional Aboriginal culture: beliefs, customs, homes, food, survival skills, tools and weapons, art, music, roles. Build or make a model of traditional shelters. Study Aboriginal devices such as the firestick, boomerang and woomera. Make a model. Explain how they were constructed and operated. Compare lifestyles of Aboriginal people living in different parts of Australia today e.g. urban / rural / Arnhem Land 26

27 Study pictures of Aboriginal people today, including housing, work situations, children at school and play. Locate information on Aboriginal contributions to Australian society. Interview guests of Aboriginal heritage. Paint in the traditional Aboriginal style using patterns, simplified animal shapes and typical colours. Draw the Aboriginal flag and discuss the significance of the colours. Make a list of Aboriginal place names and their meanings. Research the history of Australian settlement and discuss the way in which Aboriginal people were treated. Discuss reasons for Aboriginal children of last century being taken from parents and given English names. Discuss and debate issues such as land rights. Discuss connection with the land and their respect for the creation. Discuss the Dream Time and compare it to the Creation. Read some Aboriginal legends, and Aboriginal flood stories. (See Answers in Genesis material or Themes for Christian Studies 7, God is Creator.) Read the story, The Secret, (Themes 6, Life). This story describes the secret of finding water in the desert. Read the play, Seeing through the Eyes of Christ, Themes for Christian Studies 5, God is Love. Discuss ways in which we can love and accept others as Jesus did. Read the story of Nabor the Aboriginal, from Themes for Christian Studies 5, God is Love. Discuss the actions of Nabor and the way in which he put into practice the words of Jesus. Define the meaning of 'racist' and find examples of it in the Australian community. Relate Biblical teachings to racial problems. Study the biographies of European missionaries who had a positive effect in bringing the gospel without destroying culture. Discuss the role of patience in culture contact: Have Australian Aboriginal people shown patience towards white Australia? Have white Australians shown patience towards Aboriginal people? Discuss the importance of saying sorry on the one hand, and forgiveness on the other hand. How do these attitudes contribute to the reconciliation process? Read We are Sorry from Themes for Christian Studies 7, God is Patient. 27

28 Australian Explorers God is Patient and Kind Spiritual Overview: God is patient and persevering This unit focuses on the history of Australia, although the same principles can be applied to the study of history in other countries. The explorers and pioneers found that patience was a prerequisite to success. Like many of the characters recorded in the Bible, patience and perseverance were an important dimension in their biographies. Patience is a fruit of the Spirit, and necessary for the bearing of fruit. Col Stringer, in Discovering Australia's Christian Heritage, outlines the amazing perseverance of early explorers, most of whom had a strong faith in God. It was only by God's grace, provision and protection that these explorers completed their expeditions across an unknown, drought-stricken land. He writes: "Many people feel that Australia is a land with a curse over its head. Numbers of Australians believe the foundation of our nation is based upon convicts - the dregs of British society and that we are still yoked to a spiritual rejection, bondage and poverty. But there is another side to the coin that remained largely untold.many of our founding fathers, explorers and pioneers were godly men and women of strong Christian faith. In fact the 'Providential' hand of God rested on almost all of our explorers and founding fathers!" We owe the very name of our country to a Christian explorer, Pedro Fernandez de Quiros, who named our country 'the Great Southland of the Holy Spirit'. The biographies, and writings from the journals of Australia's explorers and founders reveals the amazing faith of such men. Discovering Australia's Christian Heritage is an absolute must for finding out the truth about Australia's past. Our response to 'God is Patient and Kind' Because God is patient and kind, I will try to be patient with others try to be patient with myself remember that God will answer my prayers in His time finish jobs properly and not take short-cuts persevere and not give up when things get difficult show self-control show kindness and gentleness to others learn to listen learn to wait learn to let others go first help people when they are hurting be friendly be forgiving 28

29 be faithful Supporting devotional resource Themes for Christian Studies 6, (Patient): patience and perseverance Themes for Christian Studies 5, (Love): God wants us to love others Key Questions What is the meaning of perseverance? What is the meaning of patience? Why do patience and perseverance go together? When would we need to have perseverance? Who do you know who shows, (or showed) perseverance? What were some of the difficulties the early explorers faced? How did the early explorers show perseverance? How can we show patience and perseverance in the things we do? Biblical references John 5:1-8 - The crippled man at the pool. He didn't give up. Luke 11: Ask and keep on asking. Be patient and don't give up. Luke 18:1-8 - The parable of the widow and the judge. Ezra 4-6; Nehemiah Perseverance in rebuilding Jerusalem and the temple. 1 Corithians 9: Run the race to win. Don't give up. Philippians 3:14 - Running towards the goal Matthew 25: Perseverance in using one's talents. Exodus The Israelites patience and persistence in prayer for release from Egypt. Objectives Students will provide a model of patience and perseverance at work through a study of Australian explorers and pioneers. give some historical background of white Australia, and to see how the nation has developed from a wide spectrum of peoples, cultures and happenings. uncover the strong Christian faith of Australia's founders. become familiar with the geography of Australia through following the paths of early explorers. realize that God has a plan for nations and that He can use people and nations despite their shortcomings. Activities Using Discovering Australia's Christian Heritage by Col Stringer, study the biographies and journal writings of the following explorers: Abel Tasman, William Dampier, James Cook, Joseph Banks, Matthew Flinders, William Lawson, Charles Sturt, Edward John Eyes, Fredrick Leichardt, John McDouall Stuart Research the impact of Christian women: Caroline Chilsholm and Mary McConnel. (See Australia's Christian Heritage or Themes for Christian Studies 5, God is Love). 29

30 Map the routes of Australia's major explorers. Discuss the hardships they endured and the reasons for their perseverance. Research the history of Colonization, including the First Fleet, the Penal System and Convicts. Pretend you have been caught for a petty crime and you are transported to Australia. Write a series of letters to your relatives back in England. Explain the roles of convicts and large landowners. Explain the effects upon Aboriginal life. List the various nations and peoples which contributed to early Australian society. Compare this with the various nations and peoples which contribute to Australian society today. Discuss hardships and problems of early pioneers. Research their way of life, including homes, food and occupations. Make a model of a pioneer settlement. Discuss the financial hope of some pioneers through the Gold Rush. Dramatize events of Colonial times, dressing up in early costumes. Draw a timeline showing events in Australian history. Research the history of the Australian flag. Suggest ways in which God could use Australia to achieve His purposes, e.g. evangelism, provision of food and resources to the needy. Discuss ways in which people can misuse the knowledge God has given to nations. 30

31 Australian Pioneers God is a Humble Servant Spiritual Awareness: Serve without complaining Many of our well-known Australian pioneers were Bible believing Christians. These pioneers served our nation by breaking new ground, establishing facilities and resources, as well as sharing the Gospel. Pioneers, by definition, are faced with doing everything for themselves. They do not have the luxury of employing others to do the less important or less attractive tasks. They must be willing to serve with humility and perseverance. They do not grumble or complain about serving. Our response to 'God is a Humble Servant' Because God is a humble servant I will follow the example of Jesus, the greatest servant be willing to help others consider the needs of others put others before myself let others go first not boast not think of myself as being more important than everyone else admit when I am wrong allow others to help me Supporting devotional resource Themes for Christian Studies 5, (Servant): Jesus, the faithful servant Themes for Christian Studies 6, (Servant): Spreading the Good News Supporting history resource for Australian schools Discovering Australia's Christian Heritage, Col Stringer Biblical references 1 Peter 4: Each one should use whatever gift he has to serve others. John 13:4-5 - Jesus washed the disciple's feet. Luke 16:10 - Be faithful in little things. Matthew 5:14 - Christians are lights to the world. Luke 12: Faithfulness in serving Jesus. Matthew 16:24 - Take up your cross. Key Questions How did Jesus serve when He was on earth? What is a faithful servant? How can we be faithful servants? What can we learn about serving from the lives of early Christian pioneers? Objectives Students will 31