Citizenship KS2/KS3/Levels E&F
Race and religion
Many religious festivals take place in December and January.
Students look at the common aspects of different festivals.
- Similarities and differences between religious festivals
Ask the class:
- What religious festivals do you celebrate?
- How do you celebrate them?
- Can you spot any similarities between the celebrations.
Students research the various religious festivals in December and/or January and add to the example table below with details of other festivals.
In December, Christians celebrate Christmas Day, Jews celebrate Hanukkah, Buddhists celebrate Bodhi Day and Zoroastrians celebrate Zartusht-No-Diso.
In January, Buddhists celebrate Shinran and Honen memorial days, Christians celebrate Epiphany, Hindus celebrate Makar Sankrant, Jews celebrate Tu B'Shevat, Muslims celebrate Eid-Ul-Adhr, Rastafarians celebrate Christmas, Sikhs celebrate the birthday of Guru Gobind Singh.
Students may wish to use our guide to religious festivals to help them.
Religion - Judaism
- Name of festival - Hanukkah
- Date(s) - 26 Dec to 2 Jan
- Rituals - Lighting eight branched candle holder
- Food eaten - Potato pancakes
- Other information - Singing hymn called Maoz Tzur
Religion - Christianity
- Name of festival - Christmas
- Date(s) - 25 Dec
- Rituals - Lighting candles
- Food eaten - Turkey
- Other information - Carol singing
Students use photographs and images from magazines, websites and newspapers to design a poster that celebrates the UK's multicultural society.
- What differences did you find between the religious festivals?
- What similarities did you find between the religious festivals?
- Are there any rituals/food from a particular religion you would like to adopt/taste?
National Curriculum Citizenship Key Stage 3
1b. The diversity of national, regional, religious and ethnic identities in the United Kingdom and the need for mutual respect and understanding
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