Houghton Mifflin Social Studies
A Message of Ancient Days
Lesson at a Glance
Chapter 8, Lesson 3: Beginning of Buddhism (pp. 235-240)
The Big Idea
Framework Concept: Values Buddhism, which was founded by the Buddha (Siddhartha),
has become one of the world's major religions.
- Present the story of the founding of Buddhism and review its basic beliefs. Use
a two-column chart to contrast its beliefs with the established religion of the time,
which was run by the Vedhic priests. Be sure students understand the concept of
enlightenment, rebirth, and kharma.
- Talk about Asoka, the emperor who adopted Buddhism. Point out the ways in
which his support helped spread the teachings of the Buddha, both within and
outside the subcontinent.
Lesson Outline
Use the Lesson Outline to preview the content of the lesson. You may wish to print it for your students as a guide during reading.
Check for Understanding
- Ask students to write a paragraph explaining how Asoka's actions changed
after his conversion to Buddhism, and how those actions reflected his Buddhist beliefs.
- Have each student draw eight small pictures, one to represent each of the
steps in the Eightfold Path. If they wish, they can use modern settings or
symbols in their pictures.
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