Teaching Students About the Hymn “On Eagles Wings”
‘On Eagles’ Wings’ is an inspirational hymn that has captivated audiences and strengthened the spiritual connection of millions of people across the world. Its powerful imagery, poetic verses, and deep message of comfort, protection, and hope can contribute greatly to students’ personal and spiritual growth. As a teacher, introducing ‘On Eagles’ Wings’ in your lesson plans can leave a lasting impact on the lives of young learners. This article will explore effective ways to teach and engage students in understanding this cherished hymn in a meaningful manner.
I. The Origins and Meaning of “On Eagles’ Wings”
1. Brief Background
– Discuss the history of ‘On Eagles’ Wings,’ including its Biblical origins from Psalm 91
– Introduce Michael Joncas, the composer who wrote the hymn in 1979
2. Analyzing the Lyrics
– Break down each verse and explain its meaning, highlighting themes such as trust in God, divine support, and protection
II. Implementing ‘On Eagles’ Wings’ into Lesson Plans
1. Reading and Reflecting
– Have students read through the lyrics individually or as a group
– Encourage open discussions about their personal connection or interpretation of the hymn
2. Artistic Exploration
– Organize activities for students to illustrate their understanding or feelings evoked by ‘On Eagles’ Wings.’ Examples include drawing, painting, or creating collages with symbols from the hymn
3. Musical Expression
– Teach students the tune of ‘On Eagles’ Wings’, allowing them to sing along and feel its melody
– Guide them through listening to different renditions of the hymn by various artists
4. Creative Writing Assignment
– Assign a writing task for students to create their version of a Psalm-inspired poem, citing themes from ‘On Eagles’ Wings’
5. Connecting to Real-Life Situations
– Share stories or news articles of individuals overcoming challenging circumstances, relating their experiences to the hymn’s themes
III. Assessing Student Understanding
1. Classroom Discussions
– Observe student participation in group discussions, paying attention to their comprehension and reflections on the hymn
2. Art and Writing Assignments
– Evaluate students’ artwork and writing pieces for genuine engagement with the themes and message of ‘On Eagles’ Wings’
Conclusion:
Teaching students about ‘On Eagles’ Wings’ can spark profound conversations, encourage introspection, and uplift spirits. Whether your focus is on music, poetry, history, or spirituality, educators can effectively introduce this timeless hymn to captivate young learners, providing them a sense of resilience, hope, and assurance that they can soar high like eagles during life’s journey.