What happens when we die? (Part 2)
Continuing to investigate concepts relating to death, children learn the meaning of reincarnation and karma.
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What happens when we die? (Part 2)
Unit outcomes
Pupils who are secure will be able to:
- Recognise beliefs about the soul being part of God.
- Identify clues that Hindus and Sikhs generally believe in the soul experiencing more than one life.
- Recognise that the ultimate goal for many Hindus and Sikhs is freedom from reincarnation.
- Use the terms moksha, mukti and nirvana to describe enlightenment and freedom from samsara and reincarnation.
- List ways a person can gather karma through actions and experiences.
- Suggest ways some Sikh practices and funeral rites may provide comfort to someone experiencing death.
- Discuss the meaning of moksha and nirvana, drawing similarities from them.
- Consider ways enlightenment can be represented in art.
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
What happens when we die? (Part 1)
Get startedYou may wish to watch the unit video for What happens when we die? (Part 1) before teaching this unit.
Lessons
Lesson 1: If there’s a soul, where does it go?
- To explain some Dharmic beliefs about the soul.
Lesson 2: What is samsara?
- To understand some beliefs about samsara and reincarnation.
Lesson 3: How might someone reach moksha?
- To recognise factors that may contribute to someone breaking the cycle of reincarnation and samsara.
Lesson 4: How can people find comfort after death?
- To describe how certain practices and traditions may help a Sikh person cope with the death of someone.
Lesson 5: What is nirvana?
- To express ideas about enlightenment based on Buddhist beliefs.
Lesson 6: What does enlightenment look like?
- To express ideas about enlightenment based on Buddhist beliefs.
Key skills
Key knowledge
Related content
Unit resources
Knowledge organiser – R&W Y5: What happens when we die? (Part 2)
Aimed at pupils, a double page document that gives key facts and definitions from the 'What happens when we die?…
Vocabulary display: R&W Year 5 – What happens when we die? (Part 2)
A display version of the key vocabulary from the 'What happens when we die? (Part 2)' unit.
Cross-curricular opportunities
English: Spoken language; Reading.
Science: Properties and change of materials.
Art and Design.
RSE: Respectful relationships.
British values: Mutual respect; Tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs.