1. Happy Christmas (War is Over)

2. Before reading The Theme
Looking at the title, what is the message?
Why is that appropriate for this time of the year?
Write down 3 different groups of people where this would apply to.

3. Answers to The Theme
The message is peace and harmony throughout the world
Traditionally Christmas is a time of peace and goodwill towards all men
People living in a country where there is war
People who have loved ones fighting in a country where there is war
People facing racism, prejudice, poverty
People living far away from their families and friends

4. During reading The Poem
Read together with the students
Ask them to make notes on their thoughts while we are reading the poem
After reading ask students to write down at least 3 different messages John Lennon is trying to put across.

5. After reading The Poet Who was John Lennon?
He was part of which world famous pop group?
Name 3 songs you know of which are written by him.
How did he die?

6. Answers to The Poet
John Lennon was a singer/songwriter and a peace activist. Together with Paul MaCartney, he is half of possibly the most famous songwriting partnerships of the 20th century
He was one quarter of The Beatles
Imagine, Give Peace A Chance, Penny Lane, Lucy In The Sky, Strawberry Fields, etc
In 1980 he was shot by a deranged fan in New York

7. The Song http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yN4Uu0OlmTg
After listening to the song, ask students to write down 3 images which most stood out to them
In groups of 3 or 4 students must discuss their thoughts.
Discuss with the class if they think the song is relevant in our times? Why?

8. Homework
The text at the end of the video was a quote by Mahatma Gandhi “an eye for an eye will make us all blind”
Design a poster with your group to promote a re-release of this song