Discovering Islam

Lesson Overview

This lesson is designed for Reception students to introduce them to the basic concepts of Islam. The focus will be on key figures, simple practices, and values such as kindness and sharing. The lesson will be interactive, engaging the student through storytelling, discussions, and a creative activity.

Duration

20 minutes

Age Group

4-5 years

Learning Objectives

• Recognise key Islamic symbols (e.g., crescent moon, star).
• Understand the importance of kindness and sharing in everyday life.
• Identify basic beliefs (e.g., belief in one God).

Curriculum Framework References

• Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) - Personal, Social and Emotional Development (PSED)
• Understanding the World (UW)

Resources Needed

• Picture cards (crescent moon, star, mosque)
• Storybook about kindness (e.g., a simple fable)
• Coloured paper, crayons or markers
• A small box for “kindness tokens” (e.g., pebbles or buttons)

Lesson Procedure

Introduction (5 minutes)

1. Welcome the Student: Start with a cheerful greeting. Ensure the environment is calm and welcoming.
2. Discussion Starter: Ask the student if they have heard of Islam or seen symbols like a crescent moon or star. Show the picture cards to spark interest.

Story Time (5 minutes)

1. Read a Story: Use a simple storybook that focuses on kindness and sharing. Emphasise characters showing kindness to others.
2. Ask Open-Ended Questions: After the story, engage the student by asking, "How can we be kind?" or "What did the character do to help?"

Activity: Kindness Tokens (7 minutes)

1. Introduce the Kindness Tokens: Explain the concept of kindness tokens—small acts of kindness we can do for others.
2. Create Tokens: Give the student coloured paper and crayons. Ask them to draw or write simple acts of kindness (e.g., helping a friend, sharing toys).
3. Fill the Kindness Box: Once completed, have the student place their tokens in the small box. Explain that we can use these ideas to create a kinder world.

Closing Circle (3 minutes)

1. Recap the Lesson:
   • Ask the student to identify one thing they learned about kindness.
   • Review the Islamic symbols once more and what they mean.
2. Goodbye Ritual: End by encouraging the student to do one kind act before the next lesson.

Assessment of Learning

• Observe student participation during discussions and activities.
• Listen for understanding in their responses related to kindness.
• Review the kindness tokens for comprehension of the concepts taught.

Extension Ideas

• Consider inviting a community member to share their experiences with kindness and Islam.
• Explore different cultural practices and values related to kindness globally.

This engaging and interactive approach to early years Islamic education aims to foster understanding, empathy, and respect for different cultures, aligning with UK educational standards.