Hinduism, Buddhism, and Asoka (Ashoka)

Just a quick review of what we learned last week.  And of course, let us not forget Asoka (Pronounced Ashoka).

Be the Change

Can I just tell you how much I love this unit!  I love South Asia not only for its history and culture, but also because we get to study one of my personal heroes, Gandhi.  Gandhi influenced many people with his word and actions.  Famous activist like Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela used Gandhi's strategies to promote change.  It is my hope that Gandhi inspires you in some way.

Please CLICK HERE for a link to your Gandhi Political Cartoon assignment.

Please watch the video below as well.

One Day...

We just learned about the Palestinian/ Israeli Conflict.  Many people would like to see the conflict end.  This song by Matisyahu expresses that wish.  Enjoy.

The 5 Major World Religions

At the end of this week we will begin studying the Middle East and the monotheistic religions (Judaism, Christianity, and Islam).  In December we will be learning about Hinduism and Buddhism.  Please watch this video to learn about the intertwined history of these religions, then click on the link below to take a short quiz.

Walk like an Egyptian.

For those that missed class (tennis players), here is the video we watched on Friday. I also included Thursdays video. Please fill out your video guide as you watch.

Web Sites for Research

Here are some web sites to help you with your research.

The British Museum

Mr. Donn

Ancient History Encyclopedia

By the Euphrates River, Euphrates River, Euphrates River!

This week we will be working on our Mesopotamia projects.  Each group will have one aspect of this civilization that they have to become an expert on.  You will present your findings visually to the class any way you choose.  Make sure to follow the guidelines that I gave you and answer all the questions.

Most importantly: DON'T FORGET YOUR INDIVIDUAL PAPER!

Mesopotamia

Our first civilization that we will be studying is Mesopotamia. Please watch this episode of First Farmers to learn what life was like in Sumeria.

Baraka: Kecak, the Balinese Monkey Dance

Are you ready to apply the five themes of geography to the world?  This Thursday and Friday we will be watching Baraka.  Filmed in 24 countries and on 6 continents, Baraka shows us the five themes in a unique way.

Below is a preview for Baraka.  Kecak is a traditional Balinese dance.  Remember that "dance" is one of the culture traits passed down through generations.  If you like this film, I highly recommend Samsara.  It is a sequel to Baraka, however, it is rated PG-13.

The 5 Themes of Geography

Does geography affect history? Heck yes it does. For the next two weeks we will be studying the 5 themes of geography: Location, place, region, movement, and human- environmental interaction.

 A region is a place that shares both physical characteristics and human characteristics. There are many types of regions on this planet. Check out the video below to learn about the culture regions of the world.


    

Welcome to West Junior High!

Hello!

I am happy to have you in my class.  World Studies is a year long class that focuses on the history, geography, and current events of Africa and Asia.  Not only do we get to study the ancient civilizations, but we get to learn about world religions, and other significant events that shape the world we live in.

After taking this class I want you to have a passion for history and an urge to explore this beautiful world.  I know that it is going to be a great year.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Mrs. Somoza
paige.somoza@boiseschools.org