P4 - Mary
These exemplar narratives follow the core learning chosen by the St Andrew's and St Bride's cluster group/working group, and the St Margaret's cluster group/working group and contained in the diocesan planning exemplars:
P4 November short version (click to open)
P4 November long version (click to open)
Exemplar narrative 1:
St Joseph's, Stepps
Begin by discussing idea of the ‘Faithful Departed’ & having happy memories of loved ones that may have died.
Discuss why November is a special time to remember the dead & link to poppy appeal going on in school.
Using poppies as a focus, children each create a petal (of a poppy) for class display which has the name of a loved one in the centre. Once assembled this is focus for a prayer service (led by teacher) in which children remember this person. Each child has the opportunity to stand & say the name of that person.
Discuss importance of prayer when we are sad/worried & link to story of the Repentant Thief & God’s compassion.
(Other curricular areas: EXP 1-04a, HWB 1-01a)
Exemplar narrative 2:
St Bernadette's, Motherwell
- Visit the church and celebrate Mass on the Feast of All Saints: Fr Stephen (parish priest) led us in prayer for all who have been a good example of faith to us and who have died. We pray that they are in heaven and are now praying for us. He said he was going to show us a ‘picture of a saint’ and revealed a mirror, saying that the children can become saints and get to heaven if they live as God wants.
- Discussion in class with children about people they have lost and want to pray for, and creation of a garden of remembrance poster for the sacred area. Writing a prayer for loved ones that they will be with God forever in heaven: collate all prayers into a book.
- Read and discuss ‘the Repentant Thief’, especially Jesus’ promise, “today you will be with me in paradise,” and illustrate after discussions. Learn and sing Taize chant, Jesus remember me.