Hinduism RE Unit – 5 Reading Comprehension Lessons Exploring Deities, Dharma and Lived Faith
A rich Hinduism unit using story and reflection. Children explore deities, key Hindu beliefs such as dharma, samsara and lived faith through one story told over five lessons. Based on an adaptation of the book Tamarind and the Star of Ishta.
Across the unit, pupils follow Tamarind’s journey from England to the Himalayas and back home, using narrative to build deep religious literacy. Each lesson focuses on a different aspect of Hindu belief and practice, carefully woven into the story so learning feels meaningful rather than tokenistic.
Lesson one explores identity, belonging and family faith, introducing Hinduism through prayer, pilgrimage, sacred space and personal spirituality. Children reflect on how belief and culture shape who we are.
Lesson two focuses on sacred places and stillness, using Mount Kailash to explore Shiva, meditation, devotion and why some places are treated with deep respect. Children consider why stillness and reflection matter in faith.
Lesson three explores Hindu deities and stories as teachers, including Ganesha, Vishnu, Rama and Lakshmi. Children learn how stories communicate values such as wisdom, duty, compassion and gratitude.
Lesson four centres on lived faith, looking at dharma, ahimsa, seva and karma through everyday actions. Children see how belief is shown through choices, service and care for others.
Lesson five brings learning together through reflection, identity and journey, exploring samsara, values and what it means to live faith beyond a place or moment.
The unit is written by an experienced Religious Education Lead and is carefully designed to support depth, accuracy and thoughtful discussion. It balances theology, philosophy and social understanding in an accessible way.
The resource includes the full five chapter story, a comprehensive key vocabulary pack with child friendly definitions, and a worksheet for every lesson supporting VIPERS comprehension and disciplinary thinking. Suitable for LKS2 and UKS2, with clear progression and flexibility for adaptation.












