010101 SE Specific Subject Didactics II/III (2013S)

Stories are one of the most powerful tools teachers can use in Religious Education Classes.
In this seminar, we will first take a close look at how to best incorporate stories into R.E. classes. Different models and theories about the use of stories and storytelling will be discussed leading to a personal evaluation of various approaches.
Throughout the course, we will critically analyze the benefits and drawbacks of various stories, starting from Bible Stories from the Old and New Testament, parables and songs as a basis for teaching.
Moreover, so called Take Home Book Bags (THBB) will be put at the center of the seminar. Thus, we will use children's literature as a well to bring a subtle point to students as so many fine children's books carry a strong ethical message.
THBB are a widely spread concept found in the USA and are a fun way to help children share what they are learning with their families. Children take these (literacy) bags home, read the books, experience the stories through various activities that incorporate several senses, engage in discussions about the books and then write about their experiences in a (reading response) journal.
Teachers can design THBB to complement class curriculum, extend specific areas of study, or promote a better understanding of issues related to a child's world. The bags engage teachers, parents, and children the like. As an innovative school-to-family project they will certainly
* strengthen the family-school partnership
* make reading fun and interactive
* ignite an enthusiasm for stories, books and literacy and
* foster reading, thinking, as well as reflective skills per se.
Furthermore, THBB are not only suitable for school use, but also for parishes and other interested communities.
After having gained expertise in the field of 'Stories and How To Use Them in Class' and 'Take Home Book Bags', students will leave this seminar with a collection of stories and teaching material useful for their future R.E. careers.