Curriculum Overview
The Religious Education program is built on a two-year cycle. During the first year of the cycle, all RE classes focus on world religions, and during year two, classes focus on Unitarian Universalist history and identity. Summers are devoted to activities that underscore the importance of peace and social justice in our tradition. Students learn how to respond as religious liberals to issues such as environmental justice and discrimination of all types. 2007-2008 is one in which we will focus on Unitarian Universalist history and identity.
Listed below is a summary of each class’ curriculum this year.
PreK (3 and 4-year-olds)-Kindergarten (9 a.m. and 11 a.m.)
We Are Many, We Are One
This curriculum offers children the grounding of a religious community and tradition, along with the freedom to discover and express their uniqueness. The underlying theme throughout is anti-bias and multicultural education, which celebrates diversity and interdependency.
1st-2nd Grades (9 a.m. and 11 a.m.)
Picture Book World Religions
An introduction to Hindu, Islamic, and Buddhist faiths centered around classic and engaging picture books.
Supplemented by Special Times
Acquaints children with the Jewish and Christian heritages and engages them in celebrating Jewish and Christian holidays and other "special times" such as the Shabbat/Sabbath, Thanksgiving, and everybody's birthday.
3rd-4th Grades (11 a.m. only)
God Images
This curriculum engages children in their own religious quests. Allows for personal decision making in the context of lively discussion and creative activity. Presents God images that are derived from the Jewish and Christian traditions, from several world religions, and from modern science.
5th-6th Grades (11 a.m. only)
Kingdom of Equals
This curriculum introduces students to the life and teachings of Jesus. While based on the stories as told in the Gospels, this curriculum uses insights from modern Biblical and historical criticism where appropriate. It focuses on Jesus’ basic themes of love and justice, which remain true in any era.
7th-8th Grades (11 a.m. only)
Neighboring Faiths
This curriculum helps youth learn about their own faith and other faith traditions through interactive experiences such as field trips and interviews. These encounters with other religions are given meaning through periods of reflection and discussion about Unitarian Universalism and personal beliefs and values.
9th-12th Grades (11 a.m. only)
World Religions
An Adult RE model of two to three week sessions per topic, with guest speakers and teachers who are knowledgeable and experienced in their areas. Scott Weaver, Youth Coordinator, will be present each week to provide continuity and relevance for the youth. Sessions will coordinate with Adult Religious Education sessions centered around reading a broad range of sacred texts. Interspersed throughout will be opportunities to attend and participate in the worship service.
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