Biblical integration, like everything else, is more effective when it is communicated effectively. Great integration becomes poor integration when it is communicated poorly. Sometimes it is appropriate for students to discover an integration concept themselves. There are times when they need to mine the material and develop their own critical thinking skills. However, there are other times when the teacher needs to explicitly state a particular concept. Here are a few steps that you can implement to help you to explicitly communicate key integration concepts in your class. I will use an integration-idea from English/Speech class to illustrate.
1. Say it.
The first step in communicating an integration concept is simply to say it. This is obvious, but it needs to be said because (sadly) integration ideas often never make off of the lesson plan.
English/Speech Example: Words have power (Jas 3).
2. Say it clearly and robustly.
Take your concept and develop it so that it clarifies a concept substantially. This helps to eliminate confusion.
E/S Ex: Words have power to direct our thoughts, attitudes, and actions (Jas 3).
3. Say it memorably.
Often great teaching is separated from average teaching by active attention to memory. Great teaching sticks, so make your concept sticky.
E/S Ex: Words have power to mold me and my words mold others (Jas 3).
4. Say it with connective tissue.
It is important the student fully grasp how the integration concept is connected to the course. If it is just a biblical fact or idea, it is not integration.
E/S Ex: Words have power to mold me and my words mold others, so writing and speaking are superpowers that can be used for good or evil (Jas 3).
5. Say it repeatedly. And have the students say it too.
Repeat. Repeat. Repeat. And be sure to put the phrase on your quiz or test.
E/S Examples:
True or False: Words have power to mold me and my words mold others, so writing and speaking are superpowers that can be used for good or evil (Jas 3).
Fill in the blank: Words have _______ to mold me and __ words mold others, so writing and speaking are ___________ that can be used for good or evil (Jas 3).
In three sentences, explain the following in your own words: Words have power to mold me and my words mold others, so writing and speaking are superpowers that can be used for good or evil (Jas 3).
If you want to make sure your students know key integration ideas, develop them well. If you follow the steps above, you’ll be on a great track.
