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Session 07: Advent Light

Overview

Grade: Kindergarten | Duration: 25 minutes | Session: 7 of 17

Students explore light and stars as symbols of Advent, combining science exploration with the anticipation of Jesus, the Light of the World.

Session 07: Advent Light

Learning Objectives

By the end of this session, students will:

  • Connect light to the Advent season

  • Create a star artwork using shapes

  • Understand that Jesus is called "Light of the World"

  • Experience wonder at the night sky

Materials Needed

  • ⭐ Star shapes (various sizes, yellow/gold paper)

  • 🎨 Dark blue/black construction paper

  • ✨ Glitter, sequins, or metallic crayons (optional)

  • 📦 Flashlights (from Session 04)

  • 📸 Pictures of night sky, stars, Bethlehem star

  • 🕯️ LED tea light candles (safe option)

Catholic Integration

Saint Connection

Mary, Star of the Sea — Mary is called a star who guides us to Jesus, the Light!

Scripture

"A star will come out of Jacob." — Numbers 24:17 "I am the light of the world." — John 8:12

Opening Prayer

Dear Jesus, in Advent we wait for you, the Light of the World. Help us shine your light to others by being kind and loving. Amen.

Lesson Procedure

Opening Circle (5 minutes)

  1. Create Atmosphere — Dim lights, use LED candles
  2. Wonder Question — "Have you ever looked at stars at night?"
  3. Advent Connection:
  4. "We're in a special time called ADVENT"
  5. "We wait for Jesus, who is called the LIGHT of the world"
  6. "A special star led people to Baby Jesus!"
  7. Show Pictures — Night sky, stars, nativity star

Main Activity: Star Light Creation (14 minutes)

Part 1: Star Exploration (4 minutes)

  • Use flashlights to make "stars" on ceiling

  • Count points on different star shapes

  • Notice: Stars give light in darkness!

Part 2: Advent Star Art (8 minutes)

  • Give each child dark paper (night sky)

  • Students glue star shapes

  • Add one BIG star (Star of Bethlehem)

  • Decorate with glitter/sequins/crayons

Part 3: Light in Darkness (2 minutes)

  • Dim lights again

  • Hold up finished artworks

  • "Your stars are bringing light to the darkness!"

Wonder Journal (3 minutes)

  1. Draw a star
  2. Add: "Jesus is my light"

Closing Circle (3 minutes)

  1. Share — Hold up star artwork, share one way to "shine"
  2. Being Light — "How can we be light for others?"
  3. Smile at someone sad
  4. Help without being asked
  5. Share with others
  6. Closing Prayer — "Jesus, Light of the World, shine through us. Help us bring your light to everyone we meet. Amen."

Assessment

Observation Checklist:

  • Connected stars/light to Advent

  • Created star artwork

  • Identified Jesus as "Light of the World"

  • Suggested ways to "shine" for others

Differentiation

For Students Who Need Support

  • Pre-cut star shapes ready to glue

  • Simplified project (one large star)

  • Sit near teacher for guidance

For Advanced Students

  • Create multiple scenes

  • Add the nativity below the star

  • Write "Jesus" or "Light" on artwork

Wonder at Home 🏠

Family Activity: Go outside on a clear night and look at the stars together. Talk about the Star of Bethlehem that led the Wise Men to Jesus. Count how many stars you can see!

Teacher Notes

  • Great opportunity to discuss Advent wreaths and candles

  • Display star art in hallway or church gathering space

  • Connect to music class if singing Advent songs

Previous: Session 06 — Thanksgiving Wonder
Next: Session 08 — Winter Science