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This teaching resource enables students to construct a well-reasoned, balanced, and evidence-based response to an evaluation-style question on the relevance of celebrating religious festivals in the modern world. It builds on prior knowledge from Lesson One, which introduced key features of religious festivals in Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Sikhism, this resource guides students in applying that knowledge to critically evaluate the continued importance of these festivals today.

Key Components:
Recap Activity: A brief review of the purpose, symbols, and practices of major religious festivals (e.g. Easter, Eid, Diwali, Wesak).

Discussion Prompts: Why do people celebrate festivals? What spiritual, cultural, or community values do they reinforce?

Model Answer Breakdown: Step-by-step guide showing how to structure an evaluation-style response (including “Some people believe… Others would argue… I think… because…”).

Writing Scaffold: Sentence starters and evaluation phrases to support learners in developing arguments and counterarguments.

This lesson includes a range of engaging and structured activities to support student learning.

• It begins with a** PowerPoint presentation** that outlines the key content and learning objectives.
• A starter activity recaps prior knowledge from the scheme of work (SOW), helping students to connect new learning to what they already know.
• Throughout the lesson, questioning activities are used to promote discussion, check understanding, and encourage participation. Students will complete exam/ deliberate practice questions to develop their assessment skills and apply their knowledge.
• The lesson concludes with a final activity that allows students to consolidate their understanding and reflect on what they have learned.