Before we discuss starting a program, let’s discuss Bible drill a little bit. Bible Drill should be fun and competitive. Children love games, and they love to dig into the Bible. First, evaluate how much time you have available for a Bible Drill class. Do you have at least a full hour? Personally, I feel like 1- 1 1/2 hours is a great amount of time to practice Bible Drill skills!
For a fun learning time, divide your class into 3 sections: books, verses, and games. I always choose to focus on either books or verses first. Most children are so excited to have learned new verses at home that once they are in class, they are excited to immediately share with someone the verses that they have learned. I have always found it best to save any games until the end of class because they will quickly eat into study time if you start your class with games. Choose games that are related to the verses or books that you are presently working on.
Note: All games for your class should be Bible related. You’ll find some here, under Bible Drill Games: https://mrmarksclassroom.com/
Memorizing Bible verses is so much more than “saying the words by heart.” Remember the following guidelines:
1. Children learn differently than adults. Use a variety of teaching methods to help children learn verses. Don’t just rely on a few tried-and-true methods. Challenge children to help create new ways to learn verses.
2. Children absorb new material gradually. Generally speaking, the younger the child, the fewer verses she can be expected to learn and relate to her daily life.
3. Children differ in their abilities. Just as some children learn to talk or walk earlier than others, so some can memorize words and grasp meanings more quickly.
4. Children learn by repetition. The more often a Bible verse is used and recalled, the better a child will remember it and apply it. To keep the child interested in learning, methods should be varied and engaging.
5. Children learn more effectively when they are actively involved in the learning. Singing a verse, acting out the meaning of the verse, and matching verses with present day application help children learn God’s message. As you plan and prepare for each session with the girls and boys you teach, keep in mind that you are helping them learn to treasure God’s Word and to make it part of their lives for eternity.
*These guidelines come from the LifeWay Bible Drill Competition Guide found here: Bible Drill Competition Guide
As for Bible Drill leaders, there are only 2 requirements: love and patience. I have served in some aspect of Bible Drill for over 30 years now and there are two groups of people that I have learned serve well in Bible Drill: Teens & Seniors. Teens are full of energy and smarter than you may realize. It’s been a pleasant experience to see the energy of the younger leaders and how they connect with 4th-6th graders. Older adults bring a lot of patience and wisdom. Don’t limit yourself to middle-aged adults when it comes to leadership!