Course Guide

Purpose of the Quarter

The goal of this first quarter is to establish a strong foundation for discipleship by exploring who God is, who He says we are, and how we can cultivate a deep relationship with Him. These introspective lessons challenge students to examine areas in their lives that may hinder their connection with God. These classes are intentionally kept simple, focusing more on the application of the topics than on gaining knowledge of them.

Leading Sessions

Preparation

Weekly Session Review: Before each class, review the Teacher Guide found in that week’s folder. It provides insight into the lesson, the main focus, and possible outcomes. Take time to study the material thoroughly so you feel confident and prepared to lead. Being familiar with the content will not only help you guide discussions effectively and respond to student questions but also allow you to incorporate your own insights or examples that enhance the teaching.

Binders: Each student should have a binder to organize their handouts, worksheets, and personal notes for future reference. You may choose to provide the binders or ask students to bring their own. Encourage them to include blank note paper for taking additional notes during class.

Student Takeaway: Each class includes a Student Takeaway designed to summarize the key points from the lesson. Print enough copies for all students and hand them out during that class. Some lessons also include a Reflection Worksheet—be sure to print and distribute those as well when applicable.

Structure

Each teaching session is designed to last about one hour. This includes the core teaching, discussion woven into the lesson, and additions from the teacher. Also we recommend allowing questions during the teaching. After the teaching concludes, set aside approximately 30 minutes for an after-class discussion.

This discussion time is intentionally unstructured. It creates space for students to share their key takeaways, ask questions, and process what they’ve learned together. These conversations not only help reinforce the teaching but also allow students to benefit from each other’s insights and perspectives. In this way, the group setting becomes an integral part of the discipleship process, where learning occurs not only from the teacher but also through the shared experiences and reflections of fellow students.

Facilitating Group Discussion

During the first quarter, you will be shaping the culture of your group moving forward. It is essential to guide discussions intentionally, creating an environment where everyone feels encouraged to speak and engage openly and honestly with one another. If you don’t have a lot of experience facilitating discussions, it can feel a little daunting. To help you develop a healthy culture, we have provided some tips and techniques.

Adapting to Group Dynamics

Every group has its own dynamic, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to facilitating discussions. However, the following best practices can help you manage and foster meaningful conversations:

1. Set Clear Ground Rules
   

   Respect: At your first class, establish expectations for respectful dialogue, active listening, and open-mindedness.
   Reminders: Reinforce these guidelines as needed to maintain a safe and supportive environment.
   

2. Create a Culture of Sharing
   

   Participation: Be prepared to share your own thoughts or experiences first. Transparency from you can help students feel safe to open up.
   
   Encourage: Highlight positive contributions during the teaching to show that students’ input is valued.
   
   Grace: Avoid calling out individuals to share, as this can make some uncomfortable. Instead, encourage participation and be patient if it takes time.
   

3. Navigating Various Individual Dynamics
   

   Overly Talkative Participants: Address talkativeness early in a positive way. For example, thank them for their enthusiasm, but remind them to keep their comments brief to ensure the class stays on track within the allotted time. If a participant becomes too dominant in discussions, consider meeting with them privately to express your concerns constructively and encouragingly.
   

   Shy or Quiet Participants: During after-class discussions, try asking open-ended opinion questions to see if they’re quiet because they’re unsure of the “right” answer, or they just need a little encouragement. Breaking into smaller groups can also help; sometimes it’s easier to share in a setting with fewer people.
   

4. Managing Group Challenges
   

   Preventing Arguments or Debates: Class discussions should be a space for learning and growth, not debate. Encourage respectful listening and understanding of different perspectives. If a discussion starts turning into an argument, step in and redirect the conversation before it escalates.
   

   Keeping Discussions on Track: If a conversation drifts off-topic, acknowledge it and gently steer it back to the main points of the lesson. Even if an off-topic discussion is engaging, allowing it to continue too long can detract from the core message. Consider “pausing” the discussion and revisiting it after class if needed.

5. Guiding the Discussion Effectively
   

   Use Active Listening Techniques: Summarize or paraphrase contributions to show understanding.
   

   Monitor Time Flexibly: Keep track of the discussion’s pace, gently guiding the conversation to cover key points while allowing natural flow.
   

   Ask Probing Questions: Pose follow-up questions to deepen the conversation and connect ideas 
   

6. Flexible Endings
   

   When the session time is nearing its end, assess the group’s energy and interest. If participants are deeply engaged and the discussion is fruitful, you may allow the group to continue, permitting anyone who needs to leave to do so without feeling awkward. You don’t want a few talkative people to hold up the whole group past the end time. Or if there is time left but the group is finished talking, end early.

Final Note

As you prepare, teach, and guide discussions, remember that your leadership helps create an environment where true discipleship can flourish. Thoughtful preparation and Spirit-led flexibility work hand in hand: your planning gives structure, while your sensitivity to the Holy Spirit makes room for revelation. Each session is more than a class; it’s an opportunity for students to encounter God’s truth, grow in relationship with Him, and be transformed through His Word. As you lead, trust the Holy Spirit to guide both your words and the hearts of those you teach.