Sandy Shores

Scripture: Matthew 13:31-35

Learning Objectives:

  • Students will learn it is important to build their spiritual foundation on solid ground.
  • Students will learn what it takes to build a strong spiritual foundation.
  • Students will participate in a service project to help birds and residents at assisted living facilities.
  • Students will learn how different sands serve as a foundation.

Guiding Question: How can we make our spiritual foundation solid?

Materials: Bowls, sand from various beaches, vinegar, large stones, miniature buildings

Procedure: Review the story of the Wise and Foolish Builders. Ask the students what they think is the difference between and wise builder and a foolish builder. After students share, elaborate on their answers by explaining what makes a person wise or foolish. Tell the students that foundations are meant to keep something upheld and sturdy/strong. We also have a foundation when it comes to our faith and relationship with God. Explain that there are things we can do to keep our foundation in God strong such as praying, reading the BIble, worship, being in community with other believers, etc. Explain how these actions help maintain a solid foundation.

Introduce the activity. Find sand from various beaches and place each type of sand in a separate bowl. Let students observe the similarities and differences in the sand. Cover the sand in the bowls with vinegar and ask the students what happens. Then take each sand and a large stone and place a miniature building on each. Which would make a better foundation and why? The students can experiment to come up with their conclusions.

Additional Questions: How can students make sand?

Supplemental Activity: Have students make quicksand and discuss why this would not be a good foundation: https://premeditatedleftovers.com/naturally-frugal-mom/how-to-make-your-own-quicksand/#_a5y_p=5930265

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