October 1: Eid-ul-Fitr, the end of Ramadan

What’s the big idea?

During Ramadan, a month of worship and contemplation, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. At the end of Ramadan, when the new moon appears above the holy city of Mecca, there is the festival of Eid-ul-Fitr, when the end of the fast is celebrated with family get-togethers, a special meal and often cards and presents.

Assembly ideas

You could start by focusing on Ramadan, why it is observed and how it is one of the five main pillars of Islam. You could then talk about how a billion people all over the world have been going without food and drink until sunset during the past month in order to reflect on the way they live their lives, and to ensure they do not become excessively obsessed with food and material things.

You could ask if the pupils have looked up at the moon during the past week - did they notice what shape it was? Millions of people around the world are waiting eagerly for the first sliver of a new moon, to begin the great celebration of Eid that marks the end of Ramadan and a special time.

If you have Muslim pupils, they could talk about their experiences of Ramadan and Eid. You could also have items to show during the assembly, such as a traditional Eid-ul-Fitr card, cakes or sweets.

Help, I don’t have enough time to prepare

Visit: www.assemblies.org.ukstandingworld_religionswr_eid.php; www.assemblies.org.ukstandingworld_religionswr_ramadan.html;www.teachers.gov.ukteachingandlearningassembliesindex.cfm?mode=searchdi splayamp;id=75amp;history=keyword

Where can I go for more information?

www.bbc.co.ukschoolsreligionislamramadan.shtml.