Thematic teaching

Creating a theme in the classroom is not complicated or difficult. It involves focusing on a particular aspect for a period of time, creating interest and at the same time consolidating concepts. Placing a spiritual dimension over the theme consolidates spiritual values as well as academic.

For example, "God is Protector" could be the banner for teaching a unit on "shelter". (God is our shelter). This is simply setting up an environment into which God can speak.

It is done by:

	Focusing on an aspect of God for a period of time. (Choose an attribute of God's character… e.g. God is Provider, God is Love, God is Truth, God is Patient).
	Integrating as many subjects or activities as you can with that aspect of God.
	Taking every opportunity you can to remind the children of this aspect of God.
	Asking the Holy Spirit to teach how to display more of God's character in our own lives.

Reinforcing an aspect of God in this way imprints the knowledge of God on the students' hearts and minds, never to be forgotten. We draw closer to God as we come to know more about His character and nature.

Children who read the amazing stories of faith, both from the Bible, and modern day testimony sources, will never forget them.

What a literary wealth we have in Christian biographies and testimonies…not just reading exercises but life changing material that impacts for eternity.

Rather than thinking of integrating the character and nature of God as 'another thing to do' in an already overloaded schedule, just take an aspect of God along with you. Ask the Holy Spirit to work through you. Ask Him what He wants to teach you and your students.