Video summary
Simran is 11 and is a proud Sikh. She likes to read and play the euphonium.
Her favourite things are music and books. She tells us that she is proud to be a Sikh because all the Sikhs are like a brotherhood and sisterhood, so it's a blessing to learn that Sikhs are to serve one another and all humanity.
This introductory clip is about identity and community, two big RE themes.
Teacher Notes
Pupils could be asked if they could show their life as a jigsaw of 6 pieces, fitted together, what six things they would put onto each of the pieces? Self? Family? Friends? Pets? Particular places? Favorite foods? Sports? Top films or books? A hobby they love? An ambition? Ask them to make this jigsaw and expand beyond 6 pieces if they wish.
Talk about how our identities are made up of the things we love, care about, give time to and enjoy.
Ask them to watch this clip of Simran and make her jigsaw. What are the different things that make up her identity?
Discuss with the class the fact that some people have a strong religious identity, but for others different things matter. Consider these questions:
How much is our identity to do with other people, with our community?How and why does our identity change and grow?Are beliefs and values important in our identity?
This would also be a good opportunity to get your pupils thinking about the video they would make if, like Simran, they had been given a video diary opportunity. How would they express their sense of identity and belonging?
This topic will be relevant to teaching Religious Education at KS2 or KS3 in England, Wales and Northern Ireland and National 2 or 3 in Scotland.
What is Sikhism? video
Eleven-year-old Simran introduces the Sikh religion and describes the key beliefs and practices in following the Sikh way of life.
Taking Amrit. video
Two Sikh boys called Taren and Jovan join the Sikh Khalsa by taking part in the special Sikh ceremony, which is called taking Amrit.
The Five Ks of Sikhism. video
Two Sikh boys called Taran and Joven explain the five Ks that they wear as members of the Sikh Khalsa.
The Gurdwara. video
Simran, aged 11, describes the Sikh place of worship which is called the Gurdwara.
The Guru Granth Sahib. video
Simran, aged 11, explains the importance of the Sikh holy book, the Guru Granth Sahib.
The Khalsa. video
Simran, aged 11, tells the story of the founding of the Sikh Khalsa 300 years ago.
The Ten Gurus. video
Simran, aged 11, explains who the Ten Gurus are and why they are important to those who follow Sikhism.
Vaisakhi. video
Simran, aged 11, takes us to the Vaisakhi celebrations and parade in her hometown of Birmingham.
