Churches are always interesting places to visit, with lots to see and explore.

Before the visit:

• Discuss the different features of a church... where are they normally located in a church, and what are they used for?
• Go on a virtual visit (using a site like Educhurch) to give children an idea of the things that they are likely to see.
• Look up the church you are visiting using Google Maps or Google Earth. Is the church a special shape? Look at buildings in the surrounding area. How far does the church's community extend? Where is the nearest other church? Can the children describe a safe route from the school to the church?

During the visit:

• Interview a representative from the church.
• Ask children to find items / features previously discussed in class.
• Can the children draw a map / plan of the church, using labels to show where different parts of the church can be found.
• Sketch items found in a church, labelling what they are and how they might be used.
• Find patterns / shapes / parallel and perpendicular lines within the building. Ask children to sketch them and make a note of where they were found.
• Challenge children to find one thing beginning with each letter of the alphabet (e.g. A = altar, B = bells).
• Ask the children to take digital photos, which could be used for work or a display back at school.

If you have any other suggestions, then add them to the comments area, or email me and I'll add them to this page.

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