The Ontario College of Teachers believes that its membership should strive to be current in their professional knowledge and recognize its relationship to practice. That they understand and reflect on student development, learning theory, pedagogy, curriculum, ethics, educational research and related policies and legislation to inform professional judgment in practice. (OCT, Professional Standards of Practice)This ethical standard of care is similar to the Catholic Graduate Expectation #5: A collaborative contributor who finds meaning, dignity and vocation in work which respects the rights of all and contributes to the common good.
In order to consider the union of the OCT and the CGEs requirements I developed a lesson that examined student development through the lens of faith in Jesus Christ who is the light of the world. This lesson engaged science, religion and social studies with both the contempory pedagogical practices and curriculum expectations. By purposely engaging the the sacred mysteries of the Church, teachers can meet the demands of the OCT while drawing one Christ who is the True Vine.
Grade: Full Day Kindergarten
Theme: To bear fruit, a branch must be connected to the vine.
Lesson: Teaching about the True Vine through Science and Religion.
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The developing Kindergarten believer is formed in the faith by recognizing the signs and sacred mystery of God’s presence through word, prayer, and life. During the Fifth Sunday of Easter Jesus told his disciples a story to teach them the importance of staying connected to him. "I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." (John 15:5) My lesson will connect the idea of the new life found in Spring (plant grass seed), new life in knowing Jesus (plant beans), and knowing the light that only Jesus brings in the world (electricity).
Prayer: Heavenly Father, help us to remember that we need to stay close to Jesus if we are going to produce good fruit in our lives. Guide us to walk in the goodness of Jesus' light, in His name we pray. Amen.
