Lesson Plan for J.S.S. One (Age 11)
Subject: Christian Religious Studies
Class: J.S.S. One
Week of the Term: 6th Week
Topic: Relationship in the School
Sub-topic: Choosing Friends at School, Factors to be Considered
Instructional Objectives
At the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
- Identify the importance of choosing good friends at school.
- Explain factors that should be considered when selecting friends (common interest, age, religion, etc.).
- Discuss how friendships at school can influence their character and faith.
Entry Behaviour
Students are familiar with the concept of friendship and may have already formed friendships in school.
Instructional Materials
- A chart showing factors to consider when choosing friends (common interest, shared values, etc.).
- Bible verses related to choosing friends (e.g., Proverbs 13:20, 1 Corinthians 15:33).
- Whiteboard and markers.
Reference Materials
- Oyeniran, J. K., Adeolu, T. M., & Akintoye, F. T. (2018). Christian Family Life. Adeola Publishers.
- Matthew, Mark, & Luke. (1987). Holy Bible, New International Version. Zondervan Publishers.
Content
Choosing Friends at School:
Choosing Friends at School
Choosing friends is an important part of life, especially during school years. Friendships at school play a significant role in a student’s social, emotional, and academic development. A good friendship provides support, encouragement, and a sense of belonging. However, it is essential to make wise choices when it comes to picking friends, as the friends we choose can influence our behavior, habits, and mindset.
When choosing friends in school, there are several factors to consider to ensure that the friendships are healthy, positive, and supportive.
1. Common Interests
- One of the most important factors in choosing friends is having common interests. Shared hobbies, activities, or subjects of interest can bring students together and help them bond. For example, if both students enjoy playing the same sport, reading similar books, or working on similar school projects, they are more likely to have meaningful and enjoyable conversations and activities together.
- Why it matters: Common interests allow students to connect on a deeper level, making the friendship more enjoyable and lasting. It also helps to have a sense of shared goals and experiences.
2. Respect for Differences
- Respect for differences is another crucial factor in building strong friendships. While it’s great to have common interests, it is also important to appreciate and respect each other’s differences, such as different opinions, backgrounds, or talents.
- Why it matters: Healthy friendships are built on mutual respect. Friendships thrive when students are open-minded and accepting of each other’s differences, including cultural, personal, or intellectual variations.
3. Age and Maturity Level
- Age and maturity level can influence friendships in school. It is natural to feel more comfortable with friends who are in a similar age group or have a similar level of maturity. Younger students may find it easier to make friends with others who are closer in age, while older students may form deeper, more meaningful connections based on shared experiences.
- Why it matters: Similar maturity levels help students relate to each other better. For example, a younger student may find it challenging to relate to older students who have different interests, while the reverse can also be true if the friendship lacks mutual understanding.
4. Shared Values and Beliefs (Religion, Ethics, and Morality)
- It’s important to consider shared values and beliefs, such as religion, ethics, and moral principles. While friends can have different religious beliefs, understanding and respecting each other’s values creates harmony in the friendship.
- Why it matters: Shared values provide a strong foundation for trust and understanding. For instance, students who share similar ethical beliefs about kindness, respect, and honesty will likely support each other in difficult situations and avoid negative behaviors like dishonesty or bullying.
5. Trustworthiness and Honesty
- Trustworthiness and honesty are fundamental qualities to look for in a friend. Friends who are reliable, keep promises, and are truthful help to build trust, which is vital for any lasting relationship.
- Why it matters: Trust allows friends to support one another through challenges. Students who trust each other are more likely to share their thoughts and feelings openly, creating a safe space for each other.
6. Empathy and Support
- A good friend should show empathy and be willing to offer support when needed. Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person, while support involves offering encouragement or help in times of difficulty.
- Why it matters: True friendships are rooted in empathy and support. Students who are empathetic can better understand when their friends are feeling sad, anxious, or excited, and can offer advice, help, or simply be there for them.
7. Behavior and Influence
- When choosing friends, it is important to consider the behavior and influence of the person. Friends who engage in positive, respectful behaviors and encourage good habits can have a positive impact on each other’s lives. On the other hand, friends who engage in negative or harmful behaviors (e.g., bullying, dishonesty, disrespect) can lead to poor choices and unhealthy relationships.
- Why it matters: The people we spend the most time with can influence our choices, actions, and attitudes. Surrounding ourselves with positive influences helps build good character and encourages healthy habits.
8. Availability and Accessibility
- Availability and accessibility refer to how often and how easily a friend can spend time with you. A friend who is available to support you, hang out, or engage in activities with you can make your school experience more enjoyable.
- Why it matters: Friendships thrive when both individuals can spend time together. While it’s important to have friends who share similar schedules, it is also important to find friends who make time for each other, even when life gets busy.
Lesson Presentation (Step-by-Step Procedure)
Step 1: Introduction
Ask the students, “What qualities do you look for in a friend? Why do you think it’s important to choose your friends carefully?” This will engage them and get them thinking about the concept of friendship.
Step 2: Explanation
Explain the importance of friendships in shaping their character and values. Discuss the factors to consider when choosing friends, such as common interests, age, religion, and values. Emphasize how these factors affect the influence friends can have on them.
Step 3: Bible Reading and Discussion
- Read Proverbs 13:20 and 1 Corinthians 15:33 aloud.
- Discuss how these Bible verses relate to the importance of choosing friends wisely. Explain how good friends can lead us to make positive choices, while bad company can have a negative impact.
Step 4: Group Activity
In small groups, have students list qualities that make someone a good or bad friend. Then, have them share their lists with the class. Afterward, facilitate a class discussion on how the Bible encourages positive friendships.
Step 5: Class Discussion
Ask students to reflect on their current friendships. Encourage them to think about how these friendships affect their lives, both positively and negatively. Discuss how they can apply the principles from the Bible to strengthen their relationships with others.
Evaluation
Formative Assessment:
Observe students’ participation in the group activity and class discussion.
Summative Assessment:
Ask students to:
- List three factors they should consider when choosing friends.
- Explain one Bible verse that teaches about the importance of choosing good friends.
- Write a short paragraph on how good friends can help them grow in their faith.
Summary/Conclusion
Summarize the importance of choosing good friends and how friendships can shape our character and faith. Reinforce that, according to the Bible, having wise and supportive friends is crucial for leading a positive and godly life.
Assignment
For homework, ask students to write a letter to a friend, encouraging them to make wise choices and be a good influence on each other, based on what they learned in class.