Religion At School

man holding his hands on open book
Type: Vocabulary
Originally published on September 26, 2020 and last updated on July 13, 2023

The topic of Religion at School serves as a compelling conversation topic for English learners, offering numerous benefits for their language development. Exploring religious beliefs, practices and values provides a rich context for engaging discussions, vocabulary expansion and cultural understanding. It enables learners to express opinions, engage in respectful debates and explore diverse perspectives.

Moreover, delving into religion encourages critical thinking, empathy and the ability to analyse complex societal issues. By discussing Religion at School, English learners can enhance their language proficiency while broadening their knowledge of diverse cultures and fostering intercultural competence.

 

 

Instructions:
Go through the vocabulary below with your students and ask them to try and use this vocabaulry where possible when discussing the different conversation questions.

About Religion At School

Religion at school is a complex and often controversial subject that involves the intersection of education and belief systems. In many countries, the presence of religion in educational institutions raises questions about the separation of church and state and the promotion of religious freedom. Proponents argue that religious education fosters moral values, cultural understanding and a sense of identity. However, critics express concerns over potential indoctrination, exclusion and the infringement of secular principles.

Balancing these perspectives is essential for developing inclusive and respectful approaches to religious diversity within the school system, promoting dialogue and understanding among students of different faiths or no faith.

Useful Vocabulary

Try and use the following vocabulary when answering the question. Click to look up the definition in the dictionary

  • religion (noun)
  • teach (verb)
  • subject (noun)
  • learn (verb)
  • multicultural (adjective)
  • value (noun)
  • appropriate (adjective)
  • fair (adjective)

Conversation Questions

My Image
  • Should religion be taught in schools?
  • Did you learn about religion when you were at school?
  • What positives are there about teaching religion at school?
  • What negatives are there about teaching religion at school?
  • Do you believe that teaching about different religions in schools can promote tolerance and understanding among students? Why or why not?
  • In your opinion, should schools prioritize teaching about one dominant religion or provide equal coverage of multiple religions?
  • How would you feel if your child's school included religious activities or prayers as part of the daily routine?
  • Should religious education be mandatory in all schools?
  • Should students be allowed to express their religious beliefs through clothing or symbols at school?
  • Should schools teach about atheism or secular humanism as alternatives to religious beliefs?
  • Should religious teachings be included in subjects like history, literature, or art?
  • Overall do you think that religion should be something that is taught in schools? Why?
Gregory
This conversation topic was prepared by Gregory

Gregory is a qualified TEFL teacher who has been teaching English as a Foreign Language (ESL) for over a decade. He has taught in-person classes in Spain and to English learners around the world online.