Advent lesson plan – KS2 RE 'big Christmas countdown'

What's included?

PDF lesson plan

Key Stage

KS2

Age

Years 3-6

Why do we look ahead to special events? Is anticipation more exciting than celebration? Use this KS2 RE Advent lesson plan to ponder these big questions…

For many of our students, Christmas is a very exciting time of year that is full of family, fun and presents. The countdown is just as exciting, especially with the daily dose of chocolate (although not so good for the first lesson of the day).

Use this Advent lesson plan to explore the human and social aspects of Christianity. Its traditions are not based upon scripture in the Old or New Testaments. In fact, there is no direct Biblical instruction to celebrate Advent as a season at all.

Advent lesson plan learning objectives

Find out what Advent is
Learn about different ways Christians mark the season of Advent
Think about why people might count down to a special event
Learn how seasons like Advent exist in other religions and worldviews

Starter activity

Ask pupils what special events they count down to. These might be birthdays or religious holidays. Is the event on a calendar or app they use to mark the days off? Draw out as many ideas as you can.

Maybe children will think of Lent, Hanukkah or Ramadan during these reflections; or you could pose them as examples for children to discuss.

Then talk about why people like (or maybe don’t like) counting down to a special event. Mind-map these ideas for consideration and reflection at the end of the lesson.

Matthew Lane is a teacher from Norfolk. His book Wayfinder, on how to lead curriculum change, is out now. Browse more Christmas activities.