The beginning of life LO To explore different

The beginning of life LO: To explore different beliefs about when life begins Starter: Is life God given?

The Miracle of Life. . . • Most people consider it amazing that a tiny sperm can join with an egg and in a matter of months a new life will have been created. • Many people take fertility for granted. However, 25% of couples have trouble when starting a family, so fertility is not entirely in our control. When a couple who have been trying to have children finally do, they consider it a miracle of life. Ø Briefly write down what is meant by the ‘miracle of life’

Blessings and Gifts. . . • Religions often mark the birth of a child in a special way. They do this to show thankful they are for being blessed with a gift. • Christians and Muslims do not see children as a ‘right’ or something they deserve. Rather they see them as a blessing, something that has been given to them by a loving God. Ø Give an explanation as to why religious believers see life as a blessing

Sanctity of Life. . . • All religions teach that life is special and precious. This idea is known as the sanctity of life. Christians and Muslims believe that life is God given and is special or sacred. Ø What is the sanctity of life?

When does life begin? Conception (when the sperm fertilises the egg) 14 days (when the embryo attaches to the womb) 3 weeks (when there is a heartbeat) On the post it note, write your name and stick on the board where you think life begins. . . Ensoulment (baby gains soul at 120 days – Islam) Viability (can survive if born premature) BIRTH Quickening (movement of baby in womb)

Tasks. . . 1. Complete the worksheet on when life begins 2. Read through page 76 -77 and explain why some people think life begins at conception. 3. Why might some people argue that life is not sacred?

“Life is not God given” Do you agree? Give reasons for your view (4)