The suffering that goes on in the world is difficult to accept and how do we answer the question, ‘Why is there suffering?’
This subject is even harder to discuss with children.
Here is a lesson plan that aims to explore this difficult subject.
Table of Contents:
1. Teacher’s background information.
The obvious answer to, ‘Why is there suffering?’ is war but this misery can be caused by natural disasters, accidents, irresponsibility, a hard training regime, bullies, despots, and even rescuing someone from a freezing river, or being a Christian!
2. Lesson plans and resources for, Why is there suffering in the World?
Updated January 2023. Why is there suffering in the World? lesson plan
Why is there suffering in the World? Worksheet 1
Why is there suffering in the World? Worksheet 2
3. A free children’s song about Remembrance.
This song by John Hardwick can be used in R.E. lessons, assemblies, collective worship, church children’s talks, Sunday schools, etc.
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Remembrance Song – Wear your Poppy with Pride.
Remember and say thank you.
4. How to fulfil the locally agreed syllabus on ‘Why is there suffering in the World?’
Hopefully you will be able to match your local agreed syllabus with what is here which satisfies eight councils:
These lesson plans are based on the Progression Documents of The Agreed Syllabus for Religious Education’ Cambridgeshire, Northamptonshire, Peterborough, Rutland County Councils. This is in the light blue text.
The green text is from other Councils: Lewisham Borough, West Sussex, Hull and East Riding.
Here are the main aims for the lesson plan:
Nature of god, suffering, death and afterlife.
Suggest how the milestones of life give a sense of identity and belonging for faith members.