Faith Foundations Philosophy & Objectives
by Sally Frazier
by Sally Frazier
Biblical
- Story driven - not themed, thus stories are presented in chronological order and Bible truths are drawn from each story.
- God’s great plan is woven throughout the Bible and is evident.
- In most lessons children read the Bible, answering and asking questions about what they have just read.
Interesting (to present God’s Word as boring and irrelevant is sin.)
- The goal is for the students to come to realize that the Bible is the living, meaningful, vital Word of God , and He has granted us the privilege to read His Word.
- Since people must be motivated in order to learn, lessons are presented in such a way so that students are motived to learn the truths being taught.
- Lessons are fun and engaging so that kids will want to come to class.
Biblical truths applied to everyday life
- What’s the point of knowing about God if it doesn’t change your life?
- Clear, concrete links are made between what the Bible says and what the response should be in the lives of the students.
Expectation of retention
- Educational theories are applied to insure retention.
- Knowledge builds confidence and self-esteem.
Foster Fellowship
- Christian fellowship is key to living a successful Christian life and is often missing at the elementary level.
- Activities are included that help students build relationships.
Read and understand the Bible and Bible resources books
- This skill is a tool for life.
- Faith Foundations is based on The Easy-to-Read version, which is written on a third grade level, so that the students can read and understand the Bible for themselves.
Memory Work
- Students learn a memory verse each month. By the end of the year they will be able to recite and explain 12 verses. (As opposed to introducing a new verse each week and expecting the students to remember 52 verses each year.)
- Additional Bible facts are also memorized (see scope and sequence).
- Students are encouraged tp hide God’s Word in their hearts so they can resist temptation. (Example: Exodus 20:12)
- Some verses are chosen to be used as meditation for peace. (Example: Nahum 1:7)
- Students learn to use scriptures in order to pray in God’s will ((Example: Phil. 1:9)
- Some verses are chosen so that God can prompt the students in certain situations. (Example: Luke 6:27-28)
Maps
- Noting locations of Bible stories on a map help the story to be more real.
- This often neglected skill is woven through the lessons using a variety of methods.