Easter

Objectives:

• Students will be able to state when Easter occurs.

• Students will be able to name symbols of Easter and describe what they symbolize.

• Students will be able to state both the religious and secular reasons for celebrating Easter.

Suggested Grades:

3rd Grade - 4th Grade - 5th Grade - 6th Grade

Lesson Procedure:

Print the reading comprehension passage and questions (see below).

Students should read the passage silently, then answer the questions. Teachers may also use the text as part of a classroom lesson plan.

Lesson Excerpt:

Easter is a Christian holiday that is also observed by non-Christians to celebrate the new life of spring. For Christians, Easter is the day that Jesus rose from the dead three days after he was killed. Easter occurs in the spring, when the trees and flowers begin to blossom and the days get longer and brighter. Many people celebrate Easter with family and friends. Gathering for brunch is a popular tradition. Symbols of Easter include eggs, baby chicks and rabbits. These symbols remind people of new life, which is why they have become popular at Easter. Of course, you have heard of the Easter Bunny, and you have probably hunted for Easter eggs as well. The tradition of hunting for eggs is part of Easter not only in the United States, but in other countries such as England and Australia too. At Easter, people decorate their homes with flowers and other symbols of spring. Pastel colors are very popular for Easter.

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