Teach Primary Issue 19.5

Children face a world shaped by climate change, deforestation and biodiversity loss, so including the topic in our teaching is a must. This lesson introduces how Christianity and the non-religious worldview of ethical veganism teach care for the environment. By examining two distinct ways of looking at the world, pupils can begin to grasp how beliefs – whether religious or philosophical – can shape how people live and act for the good of the planet. You can find some background knowledge for this lesson in the downloadable teaching notes (link on the right). 1 | CREATION AND STEWARDSHIP Begin by explaining that Christians believe the Earth is sacred (God’s creation) and that humans are tasked with looking after it. Then introduce the creation story in Genesis 1 and 2. Look at Genesis 1:26–28 (rule over…) Genesis 2.15 (cultivate and care…) where God entrusts humans to care for his creation. Ask pupils what this story suggests about the relationship between people and nature. Now discuss the concept of stewardship. Encourage pupils to consider what it means to be a caretaker rather than an owner. What happens if we swap the word ‘rule’ for ‘steward’ in Genesis 1:26-28? Use this as a foundation to explore how many Christians view their environmental responsibilities. Next, show images of Christian practices linked to the environment, such as harvest festivals. Then ask pupils what these celebrations tell us about how Christians honour the natural world. Highlight how Jesus’ teachings on compassion are often understood to include animals and ecosystems. Then explore how Christians act on these beliefs today. Present examples like Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’ and the Church of England’s net-zero commitment. How might a church reduce its environmental impact? Frame START HERE MAIN LESSON WHAT THEY’LL LEARN l What Christians believe about God’s creation l How ethical vegans avoid harming animals or ecosystems through lifestyle choices l How worldviews encourage action to reduce environmental harm l How different worldviews can have shared values l How our own choices affect the world RE Begin with a short class discussion based on images of pollution, deforestation or plastic waste. Who should take care of the Earth? Let pupils suggest their ideas. Then introduce the focus for the lesson on how Christianity and ethical veganism respond to environmental issues. Emphasise that one is a religion, and the other is a non-religious worldview or philosophical belief. Note how both offer strong motivations to care for the planet and reduce harm. Encourage children to share what they already know about these views (have they heard of either, either in school or at home?) and dispel any initial misconceptions they may have. Why should we care for the environment? Compare different worldviews to find some answers, with Matthew Lane KS2 LESSON PLAN theteachinglane.co.uk They’ve got the whole world in their hands 76 | www.teachwire.net