Objective
By the end of this lesson, Pehrsen will have a clear understanding of the Age of Enlightenment and the First Great Awakening, including key figures like Jonathan Edwards, John and Charles Wesley, and George Whitefield. Pehrsen will also explore how these events shaped religious thought and community in the 18th century.
Materials and Prep
- Notebook and pencils for note-taking
- Colorful markers or crayons for drawing
- Printed timeline of the Age of Enlightenment and the First Great Awakening (can be created beforehand)
- Access to a quiet space for discussion and activities
- Optional: access to a computer or tablet for additional research
Before the lesson, familiarize yourself with the key figures and events of the Age of Enlightenment and the First Great Awakening to guide Pehrsen's learning effectively.
Activities
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Timeline Creation:
Pehrsen will create a colorful timeline that highlights important events and figures of the Age of Enlightenment and the First Great Awakening. This will help visualize the sequence of events and their significance.
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Character Role Play:
Pehrsen will choose a key figure (like Jonathan Edwards or George Whitefield) and prepare a short presentation or skit about their life and contributions. This activity encourages creativity and helps Pehrsen remember important details.
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Group Discussion:
Have a discussion about how the First Great Awakening united different denominations. Pehrsen can share thoughts on why unity is important in a community and how it can bring people together.
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Art Project:
Pehrsen can draw a scene from a church revival meeting, illustrating what it might have looked like during the First Great Awakening. This will help reinforce the visual aspect of the historical events.
Talking Points
- "The Age of Enlightenment was a time when people started to think more about science and reason. It helped people question old ideas!"
- "The First Great Awakening was a religious revival that started in the 1730s. It made people excited about their faith again!"
- "Jonathan Edwards was a famous preacher who spoke passionately about God. He gave a famous sermon called 'Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God'!"
- "John and Charles Wesley were brothers who started the Methodist movement. They believed in helping others and spreading the message of love!"
- "George Whitefield traveled all over England and America, preaching to huge crowds. He wanted to unite people from different churches!"
- "The First Great Awakening helped to bring different Christian groups together. It showed that faith can connect people, no matter where they come from!"