From Church Times - 21 September 2012 As ever, assembly takers across the land will be grateful for the chance to add more volumes to the already groaning assembly shelf. New ideas are always welcome when the responsibilty is daily for 39 weeks. Where in the World?, by Martin Payne, has material both for the classroom and collective worship. The migration of swallows at the end of summer has always been a thing of wonder: the author skilfully uses this annual miracle to explore the Christian faith through the eyes of the world-wide church. From somewhere to everywhere is its engaging sub-theme. An ideal resource for both RE and worship in the autumn term.
From REtoday - Spring 2013 Where in the World? is a book with great potential! Between its covers, are pages of information and inspiration supporting the teaching of Christianity. It contains material for assemblies and leading worship in primary schools. There is clarity in the content, text and layout. Throughout the book, as you would expect from an RE resource, there are questions and discussion starters. The following questions might help you decide if this is a book for you: Is the teaching of Christianity, as a worldwide religion, taught with confidence in your school? In your teaching of Christianity, do you look for guidance, facts and background information? Do you need a resource which provides ideas to engage your pupils and enhance learning in RE? If the answer to any or all is 'Yes', then this handbook is for you, for the staffroom and professional development! It is packed with practical activities and advice, clearly explaining Christianity in terms of core beliefs and practice, as a worldwide faith, in a global context. It will deepen understanding, offering a wide variety of cross-curricular learning experiences and strategies, easily adapted for different age-groups and abilities. Through the eyes of a migrating swallow named Sparkle and photographs on the Barnabas' website, the story unfolds of a culturally diverse faith found in seven countries. Churches become Sparkle's stop-overs, from Britain to Austria to South Africa, via Romania, Israel, Sudan and Uganda. There are stories, songs, poems and prayers; from different people, places, times and traditions. There are many references and internet links and a useful list of worldwide festivals and anniversaries. There is a five week scheme of work - but there is much more to use, choose and make your own. Excellent value for money and highly recommended! I know more about Christianity worldwide and have new things to do and share in RE and collective worship. I'm also buying myself a cuddly 'Sparkle', as suggested! A useful resource.
