Lesson Title:

In His Image: God’s Design Begins with a Cell

Grade Level:

Middle School (Grade 7–8)

Time Required:

One class period (45–60 minutes)

Materials Needed:

– Theology Slide Deck (Click Teacher Theological Connections Slide Set to the right)
– Student Worksheet: Scripture + Virtue Reflection (Click on Student Theological Connections Worksheet to the right).
– Slide Annotations / Teacher Guide (download from top of Teacher Theological Connections Slide Set page)

– Bible (optional, for Scripture reading)
– Student journals or writing paper

Objectives:

– Recognize the theological significance of human life beginning at conception.
– Connect scientific knowledge about chromosomes and human development to Catholic teaching on the dignity of life.
– Reflect on Scripture, the Catechism, and Theology of the Body.
– Apply personal virtue in response to an understanding of human dignity and responsibility.

Lesson Flow / Sequence:

1. Opening Prayer and Warm-Up Question (5 min)
   2. Slide Presentation with Discussion (25 min)
   3. Scripture + Virtue Reflection Worksheet (15 min)
   4. Final Reflection and Closing Prayer (5 min)

Assessment Options:

– Student completion of the reflection worksheet
– Class discussion participation
– Short written reflection on the final prompt

Optional Extensions:

– Invite students to write prayer intentions for unborn children or struggling parents.
– Share a story about St. Teresa of Calcutta and her pro-life witness.
– Discuss ways to live out respect and compassion in school life.