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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can describe how Christian churches might look similar and different.

      Key learning points

      1. There are a range of different churches where Christians worship.
      2. Some churches were originally built as churches; others have been converted from a previous use.
      3. Many churches have a cross to help Christians remember Jesus.
      4. Churches are about people as much as buildings.

      Keywords

      • Church - a place of worship for Christians

      • Worship - showing respect, love or devotion for something or someone

      • Cross - a symbol that reminds Christians about Jesus

      Common misconception

      There is only one type of church. All churches have stained glass windows, towers and are made of stone.

      Churches come in all shapes and sizes. Some look very traditional and some are modern.

      Teacher tip

      Teachers might find it useful to take pictures of the outside and inside of local churches. Pupils could investigate further using the pictures to explore why certain parts of a church might be more significant than others for different believers.

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      5 Questions

      Q1.
      Why are places of worship important to believers?

      they are used for singing
      Correct answer: they help believers pray and learn about God
      they are places to play games

      Q2.
      Where do most Christians go to worship God?

      a mosque
      a synagogue
      Correct answer: a church

      Q3.
      What does it mean when something is 'sacred'?

      Correct answer: it is something that is special and holy
      it is something that is old and dusty
      it is something that is fun and exciting

      Q4.
      What is belonging?

      playing by yourself and not talking to anyone
      Correct answer: feeling like you are part of a group or a community
      only talking to the teacher and no one else

      Q5.
      Which of the following are ways Christians show that they belong to a church?

      Correct answer: by attending religious community events
      by playing with friends
      Correct answer: by praying or listening to religious teachings

      5 Questions

      Q1.
      Why do Christians have different types of churches?

      Correct answer: because different churches have different traditions
      because they like different things
      because they like different colours and styles

      Q2.
      What is the name of the special book Christians use in church?

      Correct answer: the Bible
      the Qur'an
      the Torah

      Q3.
      What is an important part of a church for many Christians?

      the door
      Correct answer: the altar
      the windows

      Q4.
      What is the special table in a church called?

      a lectern
      Correct answer: an altar
      a cross

      Q5.
      Which ceremony do Christians use to welcome someone into their church?

      Easter
      Correct answer: baptism
      confirmation

      To help you plan your 1 religious education lesson on: How churches differ, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...