UNit 1 - Fall of Rome, Rise of Religion
In 6th grade, students learn about the ancient mythologies of several civilizations, as well as the roots of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Confucianism. So to kick off the start of 7th grade, students will learn the roots of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, three intensely related monotheistic religions that began in the Middle East and share some common stories and prophets. We also pick up where we left off: ancient Rome. It was the Romans who executed Jesus of Nazareth and destroyed the temple in Jerusalem, forcing a diaspora of Jews throughout the empire. Students will study common religious vocabulary, the founding prophets, and learn about the different beliefs, holidays, and texts.
Essential Questions
Why did the Roman Empire decline and "fall"?
What is Judaism and how did it become a major religion?
What is Christianity? How is it related to Judaism and how did it spread?
What is Islam? How is it related to Judaism and Christianity? How did it spread?
What is Judaism and how did it become a major religion?
What is Christianity? How is it related to Judaism and how did it spread?
What is Islam? How is it related to Judaism and Christianity? How did it spread?
LInks and VIdeos
Map: World Religions
Video: The World's Five Major Religions, History/Beliefs Explained - TedEd (11 min) Link and Maps: Concentration of World Religions Map: Second Largest Religion in Each State Maps: 40 Maps That Explain the Middle East Article: Islam is World's Fastest Growing Religion Video Map and Timeline: Spread of Five Major Religions Video: Major Maryem Mansouri, female fighter pilot from the U.A.E. (1 minute) Video: Summer of 2018 - Women can finally drive in Saudi Arabia Video 2: Summer of 2018 - Women can finally drive in Saudi Arabia |
Video: Introduction to Islam's Roots
Video: A Muezzin Call to Prayer Video: A Bat Mitzvah in America Video: Science and Islam - BBC Documentary on Muslim scholars Video: National Geographic's "Inside Mecca," a look at three pilgrim's hajj to Mecca. Link: 5 Pillars of Islam Beginner's Website Link: Another helpful 5 Pillars Website Anne Frank House Virtual Tour |