To establish a rhythm of worshipful practices, we need to intentionally model these for students and draw students’ attention to the purpose behind the practices we employ.
Therefore, where possible, I have intentionally woven these practices through this website as a ‘model’ for you!
Classroom culture needs liturgical and worshipful practices, intentional with rhythm and regularity: to form the imagination, shape character and direct passion to the kingdom of God.
Smith (2000)
Themes and ideas are repeated in various ways to ensure understanding and internalisation, just as you would for students!
In the ‘real world’, school subjects and mathematical topics are not discrete units; everything is interconnected. Therefore, I have highlighted ‘real-life’ themes to provide context, and I have made links that interconnect ideas with different entry points. Clear menus provide options for navigation and starting over.
Celebrate God’s purposes.
The purpose behind tools and resources, including units of work and activities, is clearly explained.
By sharing my own ‘story,’ I aim to bring authenticity and a sense of reality to the topics studied.
This approach helps students move beyond the theoretical and connects classroom learning to the real-life context that God intends.
Celebrate God’s Truth.
The biblical story is shared incrementally, focusing on different aspects over time. This approach models that the entire Bible represents God’s progressive revelation of His plans and purposes through Jesus’ saving work.
These biblical ideas connect with mathematical topics and can foster meaningful conversations. It is not intended to be a full theology.
Alternate worldviews are explored within the context of the biblical narrative.
Celebrate beauty.
While not a graphic designer, I’ve strived to create beautiful work, unto God, to the best of my ability.
Photos are selected that enhance the message and that will be meaningful to students. For instance, these Gouldian finches, which frequently visit Darwin, serve as a delightful reminder of the joy God must have experienced while creating each bird in its own unique and beautiful way!
Teachers need to model beautiful work in materials like PowerPoints, posters, and handouts, and examples of these are given. The hope is that students will create similarly beautiful work that blesses others.
Celebrate in God’s community.
During my post-graduate studies, my desire has been for God to use my learning for His purposes. Motivated by Jesus Christ’s free gift of salvation, I aim to be generous with all He has given me, including my intellectual property.
Learning from others has shaped my thinking and practice. By freely sharing my work, I pray that God will deepen other Christian teachers’ understanding, enabling them to build upon and enhance what I’ve done for the benefit of all.