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Provide an example of an interactive lesson based on a Christian philosophy of education.
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I teach anthropology to 9th graders. I show a film called Bicentennial Man starring Robin Williams. In the film he is an android who “evolves” through a series of upgrades and petitions the high court to declare him a human being.
After watching the film, the students must write a reflection paper stating why they believe according to scripture this robot, regardless of his upgrades could not be considered a human being. (Hint: Imago Dei)
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When teaching about English for example, you and the students look at the motivations of characters and the author’s intent in writing certain words or scenarios. You will then be able to analyze motivations and behaviors and from this point, you can look at how Biblical principles apply to the scenarios played out in the book. This also allows students to see human nature play out, as described in the Bible. You can also take several minutes and discuss how the scene in the book either aligns with strays from Biblical principles and Christ-like behaviors.
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Interactive Lesson (20 minutes)
- Discussion: Ask students to think about the characters and events in “Julius Caesar” and how they relate to the biblical answers discussed.
- Example Discussion Questions:
- How do the actions of Brutus and Cassius reflect the deceitfulness of the human heart? (Jeremiah 17:9)
- What does the play suggest about the nature of power and authority, and how does this compare with Romans 13:1?
- How do different characters respond to betrayal, and what can we learn from Romans 12:17 about dealing with betrayal in our own lives?
- Example Discussion Questions:
- Character Study: Divide the students into small groups. Assign each group a major character from “Julius Caesar” (e.g., Julius Caesar, Brutus, Cassius, Mark Antony). Each group will identify character traits and compare them to biblical principles.
- Example Activity:
- Group 1 (Julius Caesar): Discuss Caesar’s ambition and how it relates to the nature of power and authority. Compare this with Romans 13:1.
- Group 2 (Brutus): Discuss Brutus’ internal conflict and his decision to betray Caesar. Compare this with Matthew 20:26 and the concept of true leadership as service.
- Example Activity:
- Discussion: Ask students to think about the characters and events in “Julius Caesar” and how they relate to the biblical answers discussed.
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Making sure each subject includes biblical integration. A great example would be using a scripture with a math or science lesson.
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Hands-on learning, such as projects, help lessons to become interactive. Students making biblical connections during lessons helps too.
