Today we enter an incredible season of reflection and gratitude.  Over the next 40 days, our class will be discussing different ways that Christians can participate in and better understand the season of Lent.  Parents, if you are looking for ideas – either personally or as a family – check out the following blog link for ideas.

http://rachelheldevans.com/blog/40-ideas-lent-2013

(You may have to copy and paste the link into your browser, I’m having technical difficulties…)

If you are comfortable sharing what you, or your family, are doing, please share your comments on this post.  The Derksen family is giving up all secular music in our home.  What Christian bands/artists are you listening to?  We need recommendations!  🙂  I wish all of your families an incredible time of reflecting as we remember Jesus’ time of fasting and prayer in the desert, culminating with the mourning of His death and celebration of His resurrection.

On Friday this week in Social Studies we will be discussing the commonly practiced religions in Japan.  If you have a chance to have a family discussion (maybe in the car or at the dinner table) about one or both of the following questions, it would help support our class discussions and learning.

Discussion Question #1:

“Religion is an integral part of Japanese life.  Although it is ever present it does not interfere with everyday life.”

Discussion Question #2:

“The Japanese have tended to mold their religions to fit their way of life more than the reverse.”

(Both questions taken from Cultures of the World – Japan by Shelley, Rex et al.)

As you can tell – these are ‘deep thinking’ questions for grade 6 students and will help develop their critical thinking skills.  Thank you for taking the time to support your child’s education at home.  If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to e-mail me @  mderksen@highroadacademy.com.  Thank you!

Mrs. Derksen