Lesson 1: Story of Thaipusam Time: 45 minutes Resources: Story of Thaipusam handout, images of Thaipusam celebration Introduction: Introduce Thaipusam as a Hindu festival celebrated in Tamil communities. Development: Read the story of Thaipusam to the class and discuss its significance and history. Conclusion: Ask students to reflect on the story and share their thoughts. Assessment: Students will draw a picture depicting a scene from the Thaipusam story.

Lesson 2: Symbols and Traditions Time: 60 minutes Resources: Symbols and Traditions of Thaipusam poster, materials for making kavadi (optional) Introduction: Display symbols and traditions of Thaipusam and discuss their meanings. Development: Allow students to create their own mini kavadi or draw symbols of Thaipusam. Conclusion: Have students present their creations and explain their significance. Assessment: Students will write a short paragraph describing the importance of a chosen symbol or tradition.

Lesson 3: Connection to Child's Life Time: 45 minutes Resources: Chart paper, markers Introduction: Discuss how festivals connect to our lives and beliefs. Development: Ask students to draw a parallel between Thaipusam and a festival they celebrate. Conclusion: Students will share their connections and similarities with the class. Assessment: Observation of student participation and engagement during the discussion.

Lesson 4: Exploring Concepts Time: 60 minutes Resources: Concept cards, whiteboard, markers Introduction: Introduce key concepts of Thaipusam such as devotion, sacrifice, and gratitude. Development: Divide students into groups to discuss and create concept posters. Conclusion: Each group presents their posters and explains the concepts. Assessment: Rubric for group collaboration and understanding of concepts.

Lesson 5: Thaipusam Celebration Time: 45 minutes Resources: Videos of Thaipusam celebration, art supplies Introduction: Show videos of Thaipusam celebrations and discuss the rituals. Development: Students create their own mini chariot or decorate a picture of Lord Murugan. Conclusion: Share and discuss the importance of celebrations in different cultures. Assessment: Peer evaluation of creativity and effort in art project.

Lesson 6: Reflection and Discussion Time: 30 minutes Resources: Reflection journals, discussion prompts Introduction: Ask students to reflect on what they have learned about Thaipusam. Development: Facilitate a class discussion on the significance of cultural celebrations. Conclusion: Encourage students to share their thoughts and ask any remaining questions. Assessment: Review of reflection journals for understanding and personal connections.