Throughout history, groups of people have found common ground with others based on religion. At other times, religions have been used to divide people from one another. And, while it's often difficult to truly understand a specific religion without delving deep into its basic beliefs, it is important to recognize the role various religions play in the lives of people today, and in the lives and events that have come earlier in our history.

This mini-unit is designed to provide some background to students about major religions in the world today and throughout history. It is not intended to describe or teach the basic belief systems that created or support these religions. Instead, it is hoped that, with a basic, conversational understanding of these religions, students will be better prepared to discuss, understand, and identify the role of religion in world history.

ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS to consider and discuss

  • What are some basic similarities of most world religions?
  • How does religious dissent lead to changes in a religion's role in people's lives?
  • How do members of a religious group view and deal with others with different beliefs?
  • How do individual religions impact different regions of the world?
  • What major changes have occurred in human history as a result of religious beliefs?
Homework/Assignments READ Answer Due
1) World Religions 68-69 1-7 10/8
2) Buddhism & Confucianism 70-71 & 74-75 9, 10, 13, 14 10/9
3) Hinduism & Sikhism 76-77 & 82-83 15, 16, 21, 22 10/10
4) Christianity & Judaism 72-73 & 80-81 11, 12, 19, 20 10/13
5) Islam 78-79 17,18 10/14*
6) Indigenous Religions 84-86 23, 24 10/16*
7) Foldable Display     10/20
8) Test 10/21      
* Due to parent conference schedules, not all classes will meet on the October 14-17. If an assignment is due on one of those days and your class period doesn't meet, it is due the next day.

All questions for assignment for this mini-unit are on page 87 of your text.

You can use the links below to help you find information about the world religions we're reading about in class

If you find others that would help other students, please suggest them for inclusion on this list.

 

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