Living in Balance: Practicing Moderation in the Christian Way
Christian Religious Studies
Primary 6 – Second Term Lesson Notes
Week 2: Moderation in the Christian Way
Subject: Christian Religious Studies
Class: Primary 6
Term: Second Term
Week: 2
Age: 10–12 years
Topic: Moderation in the Christian Way
Sub-Topic: Importance and Dangers of Lack of Moderation
Duration: 35 minutes
Behavioral Objectives
By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:
- Define the word “moderation.”
- Discuss the need to exercise moderation in everything they do.
- Enumerate the dangers associated with lack of moderation, especially in dressing and other aspects of life.
Keywords
- Moderation
- Excess
- Discipline
- Self-Control
- Consequences
Set Induction
The teacher will narrate a short story about someone who spent all their money on flashy clothes and later had nothing left for important needs. The teacher will then ask pupils to suggest what the person should have done differently.
Entry Behavior
Pupils are familiar with the concept of making wise choices and avoiding excesses from previous lessons.
Learning Resources and Materials
- Bible
- Flashcards with examples of moderate and immoderate behaviors
- Pictures showing decent and indecent dressing
Building Background/Connection to Prior Knowledge
The teacher will ask pupils how they ensure they do not go overboard when playing games or eating food. This will lead to the discussion on moderation.
Embedded Core Skills
- Critical Thinking
- Decision Making
- Social Awareness
Learning Materials
- Bible verses: Philippians 4:5 (“Let your moderation be known to all men”) and 1 Timothy 2:9 (“Women should dress modestly, with decency and propriety”).
Reference Books
- Lagos State Scheme of Work for Primary 6
- Holy Bible
Instructional Materials
- Charts explaining the dangers of lack of moderation
- Bible passages on moderation
- Visual aids on decent and indecent dressing
Content
Definition of Moderation
Moderation means avoiding extremes and acting in a balanced, controlled way. It requires self-discipline and wisdom to know when to stop or limit actions.
The Need for Moderation in Everything We Do
- To Honor God: Christians are called to live disciplined lives that glorify God.
- To Maintain Balance: It helps us avoid being wasteful or neglectful in our actions.
- To Set Good Examples: Moderation reflects good character and inspires others.
- To Protect Relationships: Excessive behavior can harm relationships with others.
- To Avoid Regret: Moderation helps us make wise decisions and prevents future regrets.
Dangers Associated with Lack of Moderation
- In Dressing:
- Indecent dressing can lead to embarrassment or disrespect.
- It may give a wrong impression about a person’s character.
- In Eating and Drinking:
- Overeating or drinking can lead to health problems like obesity or sickness.
- In Spending:
- Wasting money on unnecessary things can lead to financial struggles.
- In Emotions:
- Lack of moderation in anger can destroy friendships and relationships.
- In Speech:
- Talking too much or speaking harshly can hurt others and damage reputations.
Evaluation
Fill-in-the-blank Questions
- Moderation means avoiding _______ in all we do.
a. discipline
b. extremes
c. balance
d. happiness
Answer: b. extremes - The Bible teaches us to let our _______ be known to all men.
a. moderation
b. kindness
c. faith
d. wisdom
Answer: a. moderation - Lack of moderation in dressing can lead to _______.
a. respect
b. embarrassment
c. wisdom
d. blessings
Answer: b. embarrassment - _______ is one danger of lack of moderation in spending.
a. Savings
b. Financial struggle
c. Joy
d. Respect
Answer: b. Financial struggle - The Bible advises women to dress _______ and with propriety.
a. modestly
b. beautifully
c. excessively
d. poorly
Answer: a. modestly
Class Activity Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What does moderation mean?
Moderation means avoiding extremes and acting in a balanced way. - Why is moderation important?
It helps maintain balance, honor God, and avoid regret. - What Bible verse talks about dressing modestly?
1 Timothy 2:9. - What happens when people lack moderation in emotions?
It can destroy relationships and hurt others. - How can Christians practice moderation in speech?
By avoiding gossip, harsh words, or talking too much. - What is one danger of lack of moderation in spending?
It can lead to financial struggles. - Why should Christians set good examples through moderation?
It reflects good character and inspires others. - What is the opposite of moderation?
Excess or extremism. - How can lack of moderation in dressing affect someone?
It may cause embarrassment or disrespect. - What does Philippians 4:5 teach about moderation?
It says, “Let your moderation be known to all men.” - How does moderation help protect relationships?
It prevents excessive behaviors that harm others. - Why should Christians practice moderation in eating?
To avoid health problems like obesity. - What is one example of immoderate behavior?
Spending all your money on unnecessary things. - What is gluttony?
It is eating or drinking too much. - How can moderation help prevent regret?
By guiding us to make wise decisions.
Presentation Steps
- Teacher’s Activities:
- Review the previous topic on moderation.
- Introduce the topic “Moderation in the Christian Way.”
- Define moderation and discuss its importance with examples.
- Explain the dangers of lack of moderation in different aspects of life.
- Learners’ Activities:
- Listen attentively and participate in discussions.
- Share examples of moderate and immoderate behaviors.
- Memorize Bible verses about moderation.
Assessment
Short-Answer Questions
- Define moderation.
- Mention two Bible verses that talk about moderation.
- State three reasons Christians should exercise moderation.
- List three dangers of lack of moderation in dressing.
- What does the Bible teach about self-control?
Answers
- Moderation means acting in a balanced and controlled way.
- Philippians 4:5 and 1 Timothy 2:9.
- To honor God, maintain balance, and avoid regret.
- Embarrassment, disrespect, and giving a wrong impression.
- The Bible teaches that self-control is a fruit of the Spirit and helps Christians live godly lives.
Conclusion
The teacher summarizes the importance of moderation, focusing on the need to live a balanced and godly life. Pupils are encouraged to memorize Philippians 4:5 and practice moderation in all areas of their lives.