1. The New Studies of Religion Syllabus Implementation Package: Session Three

2. This session of the implementation package provides support to: Review significant features of the Syllabus to consider when developing programs Consider methods for developing students’ skills and expertise in writing that minimise marking time for teachers Develop school-based programs using the draft programs provided as a starting point

3. Review: Significant Features of the Syllabus What students are required to do: LEARN ABOUT – content LEARN ABOUT – content LEARN TO DO – application of skills via glossary terms LEARN TO DO – application of skills via glossary terms The integrity of Religious Traditions: approach the teaching of chosen traditions in their own right, not as a comparative study. The chiasmic structure of the syllabus: Preliminary study provides significant foundation for HSC, especially in Religious Traditions. Assessment for and of learning: promoting personal achievement in Studies of Religion through skills’ development

4. Reading, writing and more writing! Personal achievement  Content knowledge  Skill development  Consistent writing practice  Personal Achievement!

5. A Few Simple Strategies for Developing Writing Skills Consistent writing does not mean consistent marking! Spot quizzes: Allow 5 minutes for students to write the opening line and 3significant points to a question based on syllabus e.g. ‘Outline the unique features of Catholicism’ Peer review: Small groups review each others responses to a task such as the above. Choose the best for sharing with class – state reasons for selection. Small groups develop questions and criteria: groups exchange questions and write a response. Change back – mark responses and discuss. Provide an ‘A’ response for student self review: build up a bank of excellent responses for students to assess their own attempts against. Impression mark: for short, informal tasks give a simple A – E grade Keep a visual record: develop a graph to record progress in relation to informal writing tasks – see sample next slide. Provide consistent opportunities for writing practice: from the start of Preliminary allow some time in each teaching cycle to develop writing skills related to the Syllabus outcomes and the Glossary.

6. Sample Visual Summary of Writing Progress Promotes a team approach to improvement the aim being to get all the class to C and above! TaskABCDE 1. Outline origins of Christianity 23785 2. Describe events – Jesus’ life 35962 3. Explain Jesus as model… 241243 4. Outline principal beliefs… 661041 5. Identify importance of Bible… 8962-

7. Using the Draft Programs in this Package Draft programs emphasise the skills component of the syllabus: ‘students learn to…’ They incorporate a number of suggested writing tasks. It is recommended that these or similar be use throughout the Preliminary Course in order to develop skills in critical thinking and application of knowledge. Modify programs to complement the resources and particular needs of your school community The programs incorporate links to revised textbooks, websites and film resources.