Christian Religious Studies - Junior Secondary 3 - Conflict in the society

TERM: 2^ND TERM

WEEK: 7

CLASS: Junior Secondary School 3

AGE: 14 years

DURATION: 40 minutes

DATE:

SUBJECT: Christian Religious Knowledge

TOPIC: Conflict in the society

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES: At the end of the lesson, the learners should be able to

1.) Define conflict

2.) Outline the procedures used for resolving conflicts in church and schools

INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNIQUES: Identification, explanation, questions and answers, demonstration, story-telling, videos from source

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS: Recommended Christian Religious Knowledge textbooks for Junior Secondary School 3

INSTRUCTIONAL PROCEDURES:

NOTE

CONFLICT IN THE SOCIETY

Conflict refers to a disagreement, dispute, or struggle between two or more parties that arises due to differences in ideas, beliefs, interests, or goals. In the context of relationships, organizations, or societies, conflict can manifest as verbal arguments, behavioral disagreements, or even physical confrontations. Conflict is a natural part of human interaction and can occur at any level—individual, group, or institutional.

In the church or school setting, conflict often involves differences in values, beliefs, leadership, resources, or interpretations of rules. While conflict can be disruptive, it can also present opportunities for growth, learning, and improving understanding when managed well.

Procedures for Resolving Conflicts in Church and Schools

In the Church:

1. Prayer and Reflection:
   • Before engaging in any conflict resolution, individuals are encouraged to pray for wisdom, understanding, and reconciliation. Prayer helps to align the hearts of those involved with God's will for peace and unity.
2. Direct Communication (Matthew 18:15-17):
   • Jesus' teaching in Matthew 18 emphasizes that individuals should first approach one another directly to discuss the issue. This is a private conversation aimed at understanding and reconciliation.
   • If the conflict is unresolved, a second step involves bringing a trusted mediator (often an elder or leader) to facilitate the conversation.
3. Mediation by Church Leaders:
   • Church leaders, such as pastors, elders, or deacons, are often involved in mediating disputes. Their role is to guide the parties in line with biblical teachings and Christian principles, ensuring that resolutions maintain peace and unity.
4. Reconciliation:
   • The ultimate goal of conflict resolution in the church is reconciliation and restoration of relationships, rather than punishment or division. The church is called to forgive and restore members in love, as Jesus taught in the Parable of the Lost Sheep (Luke 15:3-7).
5. Formal Discipline (if necessary):
   • In cases of serious, unrepentant behavior (e.g., ongoing sin or division), church discipline may be invoked. This may involve public rebuke or even excommunication, but it is done with the hope of eventual repentance and restoration.

In Schools:

1. Establish Clear Rules and Expectations:
   • Schools should create an environment where rules, expectations, and consequences for behavior are clearly defined. A well-structured environment helps to prevent misunderstandings and conflicts in the first place.
2. Open Communication:
   • Teachers, students, and administrators should foster open lines of communication. When a conflict arises, individuals involved should feel comfortable discussing the issue openly in a respectful and non-accusatory manner.
3. Mediation:
   • In schools, a mediator (often a counselor, teacher, or principal) may be called in to facilitate discussions between conflicting parties. The mediator helps both sides to understand each other’s perspectives and find a common ground for resolution.
4. Conflict Resolution Training:
   • Teaching students conflict resolution skills can help them handle disputes independently. Schools can incorporate conflict resolution programs where students are taught to use techniques like active listening, negotiation, and compromise to resolve their issues.
5. Restorative Practices:
   • Restorative practices in schools focus on repairing harm and rebuilding relationships. This may involve apology and accountability from the person who caused the conflict, as well as efforts to restore the emotional and social well-being of those affected by the dispute.
6. Disciplinary Action (if necessary):
   • In cases where conflict arises from severe behavioral issues (e.g., bullying, violence), disciplinary actions such as detention, suspension, or even expulsion may be employed. However, these actions should aim to address the root causes of the behavior and promote positive change.

EVALUATION:

1. How does conflict in a church or school setting typically arise, and what are some common causes of conflict?
2. What is the role of prayer and reflection in resolving conflicts within the church, and how can it contribute to reconciliation?
3. What steps should be taken if direct communication between conflicting parties does not resolve the issue, both in the church and in schools?
4. How does the involvement of church leaders or school mediators help in resolving conflicts, and what is their primary responsibility in the process?
5. What are the potential outcomes of conflict resolution in both church and school settings, and how do reconciliation and restorative practices contribute to long-term peace and unity?

CLASSWORK: As in evaluation

CONCLUSION: The teacher marks their books and commends them positively