Living the Promise

			Living the Promise

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A Values-Oriented Unitarian Universalist Curriculum Based on the Hebrew Scriptures for Upper Elementary Children

Authors: Cheryl Gibbs Binkley and Jane M. McKeel

Publisher: Unitarian Universalist Church of Arlington, VA

Pub. Date: 1991

Available From: Unitarian Church of Arlington, 4444 Arlington Blvd., Arlington, VA 22204. Phone (703) 892-2565

Theme and Description Based on two interrelated scriptural themes: the development of monotheism and the meaning of covenant. Focuses on the major people and events of the Hebrew scriptures by portraying responsible, positive, and noble ways of life, and looks at how we view ourselves, others, and all of creation. Provides a Unitarian Universalist and humanist perspective on a cornerstone of Western religion--Judaism. Participants are encouraged to consider a "covenant of being"--a promise of goodness and opportunity that life should bring to all, as they answer such questions as "What is our part in such a covenant?" and "What would it mean to live responsibly within that vision?"

Goals for Participants

To relate to their own lives the themes of ancient stories told from a UU and humanistic perspective
To explore responsible, positive, and noble ways to live by focusing on important ideas within Hebrew scripture.

Age Range Grades 5 and 6 Size of Group 8 to 20

Space Requirements A room large enough to accommodate active projects and small-group discussions

Number of Sessions 30

Length of Sessions 1 1/4 hours

Leader Training Team teaching is recommended. Leaders should have knowledge of the developmental characteristics of this age group, prior teaching experience, and knowledge of denominational principles and history. Skills in arts and crafts and/or music are useful within the teaching team.

Leader Preparation 2 to 3 hours per session

Strengths

Each session explores a main religious idea
Sessions can accommodate many learning and teaching styles
Uses experiential activities, including ancient ceremonies, role-plays and skits, model building, problem solving, and cooperative games
Lesson plans are detailed and well-organized.

Limitations

Some activities (for example, drama) might need to be adapted for small classes
Leader preparation may take longer if leader is not familiar with the Bible and biblical times.

Adaptability Can be used with a wider age range (grades 4 to 8) if activities are adjusted to the developmental characteristics of participants.

Unitarian Universalist Values Presents and models specific UU Principles though out each lesson and compares and contrasts them with Jewish-Christian beliefs. Provides in-depth study of one source of UU faith--Judaism.