Exploring the Symbols of Christmas: A Free Unit Study and Lesson Plan

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Use this free symbols of Christmas unit study and lesson plan to enhance your educational holiday activities.

Christmas is a time of year when people come together to celebrate family, friends, and community. It’s also a time when we commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ.

While there are many traditional symbols associated with Christmas, such as wreaths, candy canes, and Christmas trees, each one has a special meaning that helps us to remember the significance of this holiday.

In this post, we’ll explore what these symbols mean and how you can use them in your own Christmas celebrations. You can also skip to the free downloadable lesson plan here.

Symbols of Christmas Unit Study and Lesson Plan

In this article, I have mapped out a brief history behind some popular Christmas symbols. Use this section as your unit study.

At the bottom of this article, I go into the Symbols of Christmas lesson plan. Follow along with this lesson plan and you’ll have an easy, done-for-you, elementary student friendly lesson on Christmas symbols.

Remember to print out the free Symbols of Christmas Unit Study and Lesson Plan PDF (with included symbols of Christmas poster) before you go!

What Is A Christmas Symbol?

Christmas symbols are objects, shapes, or images that are used to celebrate Christmas. They can be found in decorations, clothing, and even food. Many of these symbols have religious origins, but they are now used by people of all faiths to celebrate the holiday.

What Are Some Common Christmas Symbols?

• Christmas tree
• Nativity scene
• Manger
• Star of Bethlehem
• Angel
• Baby Jesus
• Three Wise Men
• Christmas wreath
• Bells
• Candy canes

What Is The Importance Of Christmas Symbols?

Christmas symbols are important because they help us to celebrate the holiday. They remind us of the things that are important to us about Christmas, such as the birth of Jesus Christ and the celebration of family and friends. Symbols can also help to create a festive mood and make Christmas feel more special.

What Is The History Behind The Christmas Tree?

The Christmas tree is one of the most popular symbols of the holiday. Its origins are traced back to Germany, where people would bring evergreen trees into their homes to celebrate winter. The trees were decorated with candles, ornaments, and other festive items. In the early 1800s, Christmas trees began to be popular in America as well. Today, Christmas trees are a common sight in homes and public spaces around the world during the holidays.

When we look at the Christmas tree, we are reminded of the hope and joy that the holiday brings. The evergreen tree is a symbol of life and growth, which reminds us that Christmas is a time to celebrate new beginnings. The lights on the tree represent Jesus Christ, who is the “light of the world”

What Is The Meaning Of The Nativity Scene?

The Nativity scene is a popular Christmas symbol that represents the birth of Jesus Christ. It typically features a baby Jesus in a manger, surrounded by Mary, Joseph, shepherds, and animals. The scene is meant to remind us of the humble beginnings of Christ and the true meaning of Christmas.

What Is The Meaning Of The Star Of Bethlehem?

The Star of Bethlehem is a symbol of hope and miracles. When Jesus Christ was born, the Star of Bethlehem guided the Three Wise Men to Jesus. For Christians, it is a reminder of the hope that Jesus brings to the world.

What Do Bells Represent At Christmas?

Bells are often used as Christmas symbols because they represent joy and happiness. They can also symbolize the ringing in of the New Year. Bells are often used in holiday decorations, such as wreaths and garlands. They are also a common motif in Christmas music.

What Is The Meaning Of Candy Canes?

Candy canes are a popular Christmas treat that also has symbolic meaning. The shape of the candy cane is said to represent the shepherd’s staff, and the red and white stripes are meant to represent the blood and purity of Jesus Christ. Candy canes are also often used as decoration, hung on Christmas trees or in wreaths.

What Is The Significance Of The Christmas Wreath?

The Christmas wreath is a symbol of hope, love, and joy. It is traditionally made from evergreen branches, which represent eternal life. The wreath is often decorated with items such as berries, ribbons, and holly. It is typically hung on doors or walls as a decoration.

Symbols of Christmas Lesson Plan

If you want a printed-out copy of this lesson plan to use in your own homeschool, click here to access the free printable symbols of Christmas lesson plan.

Or keep reading and follow along!

 

Free Christmas Lesson Plan: Christmas Symbols

This Christmas Symbols Lesson Plan is good for use in the homeschool or traditional school classroom. Designed for elementary aged students.

Objectives

– Understand the history and meanings of Christmas symbols

– Learn how to use these symbols in their own celebrations

– Gain an appreciation for the cultural significance of Christmas symbols

Materials

– A whiteboard or chalkboard

– Markers or chalk

– Copies of the Christmas Symbols Poster (see below) for each student

– Pencils or pens

Procedure

1. Begin by introducing the students to the Christmas symbols poster. Ask them to identify the symbols and explain what they mean.

2. Next, discuss the history and cultural significance of each symbol.

3. Finally, challenge the students to come up with their own ways to use these symbols in their own celebrations.

Assessment

The students will be assessed on their understanding of the Christmas symbols and their ability to use these symbols in their own celebrations.

Differentiated Instruction

For students who need more support, provide a list of Christmas symbols and their meanings. For students who are advanced, ask them to create their own symbols and meanings for Christmas.

Guided Practice

– How do different cultures celebrate Christmas?

– What are some of your favorite Christmas traditions?

– How do you feel about the commercialization of Christmas?

– What is your favorite Christmas song and why?

– Why do we celebrate Christmas?

Reflection

– How did you feel about learning the history and meanings of Christmas symbols?

– What was your favorite part of this lesson?

– Do you have any questions about Christmas symbols that we didn’t get to discuss?

– How do you plan to use these symbols in your own celebrations?

Homework

Write a one-page essay on your favorite Christmas symbol and explain why it is significant to you.

More Resources To Go With Your Christmas Symbols Unit Study

If you’re serious about sharing a Christmas symbols unit study with your kids, you are going to want to include some more related resources.

Here are some of my favorite ideas!

• Pine Tree Science Activity
• Fun Christmas STEM Activities
• 24 Days of Christmas Symbols
• Festive Christmas Science Experiments
• Free Christmas Mad Lib Pages