Across The Universe

Space video 3: To encourage children to think about the possibility of life in other forms across the universe. (4 min 40 sec)

Suitable for Key Stage 3

Video

Across The Universe (4 min 40 sec)
(View here or at www.youtube.com/watch?v=W7ETLWwgYiU)

The assembly follows a complete arc, with reflective content towards the end. 
You may, of course, wish to extend this after the video ends. See below for ideas.

We recommend that you watch the assembly before using it with your group.

Some of the material may appear to be of poor quality - this is because of the age of the images used.

Synopsis

This assembly takes a closer look at the Earth and its ability to support life in all its diversity. The video expands to encourage children to think about the possibility of life in other forms across the universe: what would your message be to such life forms, and how could you be sure that we could communicate with them? How good are we at communicating between ourselves?

Themes

Communicating effectively.

SEAL themes
Primary theme 2: Getting on and falling out
Primary theme 6: Relationships
Secondary theme 2: Learning to be together
Secondary theme 4: Learning about me

Music

The Planets by Holst

Any electronic music, such as ‘Oxygene’ by Jean-Michel Jarre

‘He’s got the whole world’ (Come and Praise, 9)
‘All creatures of our God and King’ (Come and Praise, 7)
‘He gave me eyes so I could see’ (Come and Praise, 18)
‘Father, hear the prayer we offer’ (Come and Praise, 48)
‘God in his love for us’ (Come and Praise, 76)
‘The bell of creation’ (Come and Praise, 86)

Time for reflection

(Light a candle and allow the students to think about what they have just seen and heard.)

What would your words be to people from another planet?
How would you ensure they understood your meaning?
Perhaps you would need to think about how you stand, your facial expression, your general body language . . .
How might these things affect your communicating with your friends, your teachers, your family today?

Prayer
Help me to think about how I communicate,
to be aware of all the signals I send without opening my mouth.
Help me to be friendly, positive and open to others.
Amen.