A Guide to Developing Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural (SMSC) Thinking in Lessons
Introduction
In our Mission Statement it says that ‘This community will be rooted in Christian values, creating a moral and spiritual environment valuable to those of all faiths or none'. This statement drives SMSC at Wren. It is the responsibility of all teachers to seek out opportunities to develop SMSC in their lessons.
Lesson Activities
Value
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Lesson Plan
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Spiritual
- developing an understanding of relationships and attachments with those near and far
- reflecting upon questions concerning life, change, death and the after-life
- reflecting upon the existence and nature of God
- engaging in activities which involve careful listening and reflection
- developing an understanding of their own feelings and beliefs
- engaging in activities which involve questioning, creating, empathising and imagining
- developing an appreciation of the natural world and the wonder of human existence
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- ability to be reflective about their own beliefs, religious or otherwise, that inform their perspective on life and their interest in and respect for different people’s faiths, feelings and values
- reflecting upon the existence of God and coming to a considered view on this subject
- sense of enjoyment and fascination in learning about themselves, others and the world around them
- use of imagination and creativity in their learning
- willingness to reflect on their experiences.
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Moral
- understanding the moral values which underpin life in school and in our wider society
- showing responsibility for their own learning and personal development
- recognising the importance of doing the right thing and the effect of their own behaviour upon others
- recognising and working with others who need support
- showing an understanding of the principles of equality of opportunity
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- ability to recognise the difference between right and wrong, readily apply this understanding in their own lives and, in so doing, respect the law
- understanding of the consequences of their behaviour and actions
- interest in investigating and offering reasoned views about moral and ethical issues, and being able to understand and appreciate the viewpoints of others on these issues.
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Social
- understand the importance of co operation and teamwork
- develop the ability to work effectively in pairs and groups
- develop the skills needed to communicate effectively
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- use of a range of social skills in different contexts, including working and socialising with students from different religious, ethnic and socio economic backgrounds
- willingness to participate in a variety of social settings, including by volunteering, cooperating with others and being able to resolve conflicts effectively
- acceptance and engagement with the values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs. Students develop and demonstrate skills and attitudes that will allow them to contribute positively to life in modern Britain.
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Cultural
- appreciating others' points of view
- understanding others' backgrounds
- enjoying and valuing the exploration of cultural diversity
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- understanding and appreciation of the range of cultural influences that have shaped their own heritage and that of others
- understanding and appreciation of the range of different cultures within school and further afield
- knowledge of the past and present of Britain's parliamentary system
- willingness to participate in and respond positively to artistic, sporting and cultural opportunities
- understanding, respecting and valuing different religious, ethnic and socio-economic groups in the local, national and global communities.
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