Year 9 Unit 1 – What is Truth?

About this unit… This unit provides for pupils to engage with the question of the nature of truth using examples of truth claims from Christian, Buddhist and non-religious views. The theme of ‘beliefs and concepts’ is intended to enable pupils to think for themselves about their own views of truth and meaning.

The unit will provide these opportunities … To consider a diverse range of views about questions of truth from Buddhism, Christianity and non-religious sources. To study sources of authority within the two religions. To develop reasoned viewpoints on questions of truth. To be challenged to be reasonable and open- minded, and to engage critically with other views.

Lesson 1 – How do we know what is true? Learning Outcomes (Students should learn) To examine 4 models of ‘truth’. (AT1) To be able to explain one model giving reasons for their views. (AT2)

Assessment of Learning Outcomes Recognise and explain different religious and non-religious beliefs about truth. (L5 – Activity 1) Present a coherent argument about different interpretations of questions of meaning and truth. (L6 – Activity 2)

MAIN TASK In small groups, students to examine the 4 models of ‘truth’. (R2) Write a caption or speech bubble for each picture. Discuss what these mean. Match up the pictures with the written explanations (R3) There is a power point presentation to go with this activity. Individually students to choose one of the models to write about. Complete the questions from the writing frame. (R4)

Lesson 4 – What does Christianity teach about truth? Learning Outcomes (Students should learn) To be able to explain some Christian ideas about truth. (AT1) To be able to express their ideas about Christian truth claims. (AT2)

Assessment of Learning Outcomes Explain what some Christians believe to be the truth. (L5 – activities 2 & 3) Express insight into spiritual questions of truth. (L6 – Activity 3/consolidation of learning)

MAIN TASK In small groups, students to examine the statements from Christianity. (R1) sort them into 2 groups, those they agree with and those they don’t. discuss their reasons for this. Individually students to complete the writing frame (R2) with their top 2 statements from each category.

Assessment. Level 4 I can: Raise some good questions of meaning myself Suggest answers to the questions, referring to what a religion teaches Level 5 I can: Respond to the questions in a way that is informed by the 2 religions I have studied Respond thoughtfully to other people’s religious commitments Explain my points of view in relation to others Level 6 I can Interpret ideas from 2 religions and my own ideas, using my understanding to explain things clearly, using philosophical words Interpret religious ideas for myself Express insight into spiritual questions Level 7 I can Account for different responses to philosophical and religious questions Explain a coherent understanding of the questions, referring to ways religions are studied