Lesson Plan
Advent Adventure
Understanding the Season of Advent
This lesson introduces 5th-grade students to the season of Advent, focusing on its symbols, colors, purpose, and duration. Through collaborative and experiential learning, students will engage in activities that deepen their understanding of this important liturgical season. This lesson is crucial for fostering a sense of cultural and religious awareness, as well as enhancing students' ability to work together and apply their learning in creative ways.
Audience
5th Grade
Time
2.5 hours
Approach
Collaborative Learning, Experiential Learning, Project-Based Learning
Materials
Worksheet: Advent Symbols and Colors, Reading: The Season of Advent, Discussion: Purpose and Meaning of Advent, Activity: Advent Wreath Creation, and Colored paper, markers, scissors, glue
Step 1
Introduction to Advent
20 mins
- Begin with a brief introduction to the season of Advent.
- Explain the significance of Advent in the Catholic tradition.
- Use visuals to show the symbols and colors associated with Advent.
Step 2
Reading Activity
30 mins
- Distribute the reading material on the season of Advent.
- Have students read individually or in pairs.
- Highlight key vocabulary and concepts.
Step 3
Discussion: Purpose and Meaning
30 mins
- Facilitate a discussion using the prepared questions.
- Encourage students to share their thoughts and insights.
- Guide the discussion to cover the purpose and meaning of Advent.
Step 4
Worksheet: Advent Symbols and Colors
30 mins
- Hand out the worksheet on Advent symbols and colors.
- Provide explicit instructions on how to complete the worksheet.
- Allow students to work in small groups to encourage collaboration.
Step 5
Activity: Advent Wreath Creation
30 mins
- Organize students into small groups for the wreath-making activity.
- Provide materials like colored paper, markers, scissors, and glue.
- Guide students in creating their own Advent wreaths, explaining the symbolism of each part.
Step 6
Closure and Reflection
10 mins
- Gather students to share their wreaths and discuss what they learned.
- Reflect on the importance of Advent and how it prepares us for Christmas.
- Encourage students to think about how they can apply the lessons of Advent in their daily lives.
Discussion
Purpose and Meaning of Advent
This discussion will help students explore the deeper meaning and purpose of the Advent season.
What is the purpose of Advent in the Catholic tradition?
Discuss how Advent is a time of preparation and anticipation for the birth of Jesus.
What do the symbols and colors of Advent represent?
Explore the significance of the Advent wreath, candles, and the color purple.
How can we apply the lessons of Advent in our daily lives?
Encourage students to think about ways to practice patience, hope, and preparation.
Worksheet
Advent Symbols and Colors
This worksheet will help students identify and understand the symbols and colors associated with Advent.
List the colors of Advent and their meanings.
Think about the colors used in the Advent wreath and church decorations.
Draw and label the symbols of Advent.
Consider symbols like the Advent wreath, candles, and the nativity scene.
Explain the significance of the Advent wreath.
Focus on the meaning of the candles and their arrangement.
Reading
The Season of Advent
This reading provides an overview of the Advent season, including its history, symbols, and significance.
The Season of Advent
Advent is a season observed in many Christian churches as a time of expectant waiting and preparation for the celebration of the Nativity of Jesus at Christmas. The term "Advent" is derived from the Latin word adventus, meaning "coming". It is a time for Christians to prepare their hearts and minds for the coming of Christ.
Symbols and Colors
- Advent Wreath: A circular garland of evergreen branches representing eternity. It holds four candles, one for each week of Advent.
- Candles: Typically, three purple candles and one pink candle are used. The purple symbolizes penance and preparation, while the pink represents joy.
- Color Purple: Used in church vestments and decorations, symbolizing penance and fasting.
Purpose of Advent
Advent is a time to reflect on the past, present, and future coming of Christ. It encourages believers to prepare spiritually for Christmas and to live in a state of readiness for Christ's return.
