The KITE Method

Barbara Stead developed the KITE model in 1994. It provides teachers with an educational model for teaching the sacred texts. The KITE model is a four-step educational
approach to teaching scripture.

K
KNOW THE TEXT
It is important that the teacher is knowledgeable of the text before it is taught. They should ask themselves questions about the cultural and
historical significance of the events in the text as well as questions about the characters and the literary style. This knowledge will inform their
teaching and equip them to respond to student questions.

I
INSPIRE THE IMAGINATION
Students explore the text imaginatively. They imagine the thoughts and feelings of those in the story. This may occur through visual
arts, drama or poetry.

T
TRANSLATE TO LIFE
Students consider the application in their own life. They discover that the bible is still alive for us today.
For example, they may consider how they can act out the bible truth in a particular passage in their own life.

E
EXPRESS THE HEART
Students translate what they have learned into prayer, this provides a space for reflection.

Principles for teachers

The model also follows 5 principles to ensure successful Religious Education using the scripture. These 5 principles are as follows:

Introduce Students to the bible - At this stage, students should be introduced to the Bible as an entity, not to individual stories so they are not overloaded with information.

Literal Understanding - Students first understanding of the scripture is literal and it is also an important foundation in faith development. It is important to note that for
teachers to be effective they themselves must have moved past the literal understanding of the story.

Insecurity in Teachers - As teachers, knowledge and understanding of Scripture is imperative and allows for better understanding of the story.

Knowing of the Word - Effective teachers will know and love the word of God and their teaching will be enhanced by this rather than solving problems and
misunderstandings with only new resources and activities.

Study of the Text - Once a teacher has themselves investigate the passage and engaged with it, the 'how' of the scripture teaching can then be decided on.
 Using KITE in the classroom
Know the text
The Setting: The Characters: The Context:
Where does it take place? Who is in the story? Where is this story?
When does it take place? How are they described? How does this passage answer questions
What is the significance of time and place to the What emotions do they reveal? previously raised in the Gospel?
story? Who is the main character? What new questions does it raise?
What is its relationship to the passages

K
Who initiates the action?
immediately before and after it?
Which characters interact with one another?
How is it related to the Hebrew Scriptures?
The Structure: The Speech: The Customs:
Are there any patterns or parallels in the story? Who speaks in the story? What social groups are represented in the story?
Is there any repetition of words, phrases or What is said? What is said about women?
questions? Why is it said?
What is their significance Who initiates the speech?
Is there a parallel in another Gospel? What is the form of the speech e.g. prayer,
question, statement, petition?
What titles are used?

I
Inspire the imagination
I wonder ... , Imagine ... , Pretend ... , Create, Dramatise...

T
Translate to life
Make connections between the Scripture story and child's own life story.

E Express the heart

Pray the Scriptures and discover the Scriptures as a source of prayer.