Sophie’s World by Jostein Gaarder

Sophie's World is a 1991 novel by Norwegian writer Jostein Gaarder. It follows Sophie Amundsen, a Norwegian teenager, who is introduced to the history of philosophy as she is asked "Who are you?" in a letter from an unknown philosopher.

Available in the LRC.

Wonder by R J Palacio

August (Auggie) Pullman was born with a severe facial difference that, up until now, has prevented him from going to a mainstream school. Written from the perspective of different characters, this book portrays a community as it struggles with differences, and challenges readers to wonder about the true nature of empathy, compassion, acceptance, friendship, and - ultimately - kindness.

Available in the LRC.

Think by Simon Blackburn

This is a book about the big questions in life: knowledge, consciousness, fate, God, truth, goodness, justice. It is for anyone who believes there are big questions out there, but does not know how to approach them. It begins with a convincing case for the study of philosophy and goes on to give the reader a sense of how the great historical figures such as Descartes, Hume, Kant, and Wittgenstein have approached its central themes.

Available in the LRC.

Take a guided tour of St Albans and discover what life was like in the monastery of St Albans Abbey.

Watch Dreamworks ‘Prince of Egypt’ film.

Watch - Introduction to the five major world religions.

Watch The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe by CS Lewis. Compare and contrast the film version with the book.

Judaism - Watch BBC Documentary on iplayer ‘Being Jewish’.

This explores many of the principles we will learn in lessons.

Online research about Christian beliefs – use REQUEST website, information about Christian beliefs and values written from a Christian perspective

Online research – choose the religion you want to research from this page

Research the Synagogue/Church on BBC iWonder website

Visit a Cathedral or similar centre of worship on holiday. Write a postcard explaining what you have seen.

Use St Albans Abbey website to see what events and exhibitions are being hosted locally

Visit a key religious event (such as Chinese New Year). Write up what you saw and investigate what it means.