Crafting Diva Lamps

Overview

In this final session of the Hinduism unit, students will deepen their understanding of the symbolic significance of light during Diwali by crafting their own diva lamps. This creative and reflective activity will culminate in preparing decorations for the school Diwali assembly, fostering respect for cultural diversity and providing a hands-on connection to their learning.

National Curriculum Links

Religious Education (RE) Key Stage 2:

Pupils should be taught to:
- Identify and explore the significance of religious festivals and celebrations (Religious Education Framework for England, KS2, Understanding Christianity and other principal religions).
- Reflect on and express ideas about how beliefs and practices influence the ways believers live (Religious Education Framework KS2).
- Develop respect for and sensitivity to others, in learning about diversity (Personal Development within RE).

Learning Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students will:

Explain the significance of light in Hindu celebrations, especially Diwali.
Demonstrate understanding of the role of diva lamps as a symbol of light and hope in Diwali.
Collaborate to create a traditional craft (diva lamp) that will be used for the assembly.
Reflect on the importance of cultural celebrations and respect for religious diversity.

Resources

Air-dry clay or salt dough materials (for lamp sculpting)
Acrylic paints and brushes (bright colours)
Glitter, sequins, small gems (decorations)
Small tealight candles or LED tealights (battery operated for safety)
Paper towels, aprons, and cleaning materials
Visual aids: images of traditional diva lamps and Diwali celebration scenes
Whiteboard and markers

Lesson Structure

1. Introduction (5 minutes)

Recap main learning from previous lessons in the unit about Diwali and the symbolism of light.
Ask a few quick questions to activate prior knowledge:
- “Why is light important in Diwali?”
- “What do we use diva lamps to represent?”
Show images of traditional diva lamps and Diwali celebrations.

2. Demonstration & Instructions (10 minutes)

Show step-by-step process of shaping a simple diva lamp from clay/salt dough.
Explain safety rules for handling materials and later using tealight candles.
Emphasise cultural respect and the sacred nature of the lamp’s symbolism.
Link back to National Curriculum: Highlight how crafting this allows pupils to express understanding of religious symbols and develop respect for other cultures.

3. Main Activity: Crafting Diva Lamps (25 minutes)

Students work individually or in pairs to create their own lamps.
Teachers and assistants circulate to support shaping and painting.
Encourage creativity while maintaining traditional-style lamps.
When lamps are dry enough, students decorate with sequins and glitter to reflect the colourful celebrations of Diwali.
Use this time for informal discussion about what Diwali means to Hindu people and why light is celebrated.

4. Reflection & Preparation for Assembly (5 minutes)

Gather students and invite volunteers to share what they learned about the lamp’s importance.
Discuss how they will use their diva lamps during the assembly and what message the lamps send to everyone watching.
Reinforce appreciation for cultural diversity and the values of celebration and light as metaphors for hope and goodness.

Assessment

Formative: Teacher observes participation and understanding through questioning and during the crafting activity (engagement, accuracy in described symbolism).
Summative: At the reflection stage, students articulate in simple terms the meaning of diva lamps in Diwali and express respect for different cultural traditions.

Differentiation

Support: Provide moulds/templates for shaping lamps for children needing assistance with fine motor skills.
Extension: Challenge advanced learners to write a short description or poem about Diwali and the symbol of light to accompany their lamp.

Cross-Curricular Links

Art & Design: Developing skills in sculpting, painting, and decorating.
PSHE: Promoting respect, diversity awareness, and collaboration.
English: Oral language development through sharing reflections and storytelling around Diwali.

Teacher’s Notes

Ensure all materials are non-toxic and safe for young children.
LED tealights are recommended for safety in assembly display, avoiding use of real flames.
Encourage parents to talk with children at home about the festival, reinforcing learning beyond school.
The completed lamps can be displayed as part of a cultural showcase to complement the Diwali assembly, creating a meaningful, school-wide celebration.

By combining creative hands-on activity with reflection and cultural education, this lesson will solidify Year 4 pupils’ understanding of Diwali’s significance and foster respect for Hindu traditions in line with the National Curriculum for England.

Teaching Instructions