Y5/6 (A) What happens when we die? (Part 1)
Interpreting different sources of wisdom and beliefs about what happens when we die.
Unit outcomes
Pupils who are secure will be able to:
- Recognise that many people believe in a soul.
- Make links between a soul and eternal life.
- Understand there are different Jewish ideas about death.
- Consider how forgiveness can be part of someone’s beliefs about death.
- Make links between Muslim beliefs about Jannah and the historical geography for many Muslims.
- Understand that funerals can differ within and between worldviews.
- Make links between Christian sacraments and beliefs about death.
- Use the word atonement when discussing forgiving sins.
- Reflect on the similarities and differences of beliefs held in different worldviews.
Caution: This unit explores the concept of death, including various beliefs and practices surrounding it. As death is something that will impact all children at some point in their lives, it is important to create a safe space for them to discuss and consider their ideas about it. Given its sensitivity, please approach the topic with care, giving particular consideration to any recent bereavements or personal issues pupils may have and be ready to consult with the Senior Leadership Team if necessary.
Be prepared to modify lessons based on pupil needs and emotional readiness; some lessons offer alternative activities for sensitive topics, allowing adaptation based on class suitability.
We recommend informing parents and carers in advance of teaching this unit.
Suggested prior learning
Y3/4 (A): Lesson 2: What is a soul and do we all have one?
Get startedTeacher video: What happens when we die? (Part 1)
Lessons
Y5/6 (A): Lesson 1: Why do some people believe in a soul?
Y5/6 (A): Lesson 2: How do some people make up for bad deeds?
Y5/6 (A): Lesson 3: If there is a heaven, what might it be like?
Y5/6 (A): Lesson 4: What is the purpose of a funeral?
Y5/6 (A): Lesson 5: How do some people seek forgiveness in their lives?
Y5/6 (A): Lesson 6: How do some people remember those who have died?
Key skills
Disciplinary
- Asking challenging
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Key knowledge
Substantive
To know:
- The meaning of
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Key vocabulary
Abrahamic
interpretation
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Unit resources
Assessment: Religion and worldviews – Y5/6 (A): What happens when we die? (Part 1)
Assessment resources for this unit. Use
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Mixed-age | Knowledge organiser
Aimed at pupils, a single page
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Vocabulary: R&W – Y5/6 (A) What happens when we die? (Part 1)
Display versions of the year group
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Subject resources
Mixed-age | Long-term plan
This document organises our Religion and
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Equipment list
A list of essential and optional
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Mixed-age | Knowledge and skills progression
Progression of skills document to accompany
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Vocabulary progression
Vocabulary progression document that outlines the
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Assessment
A downloadable spreadsheet to record teacher
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Mixed-age
A mapping document showing each
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Mappingㅤ | Policy support
This document shows schools how our
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Cross-curricular opportunities
Art and design: Record observations.
English: Reading comprehension; spoken language.
History: Early civilisations.
RSE: Respectful relationships.
British values: Mutual respect; tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.