Two Religions of Japan

Identify and compare the major beliefs, rituals and history of Japanese Buddhism and Shinto religions through research, collaboration and creative, confident communication.

Do Now: Students will locate and label Japan on both a world and regional Map, identifying and labeling major physical features of Japan on the regional map. (Atlas or projection of a labeled map should be available for student reference.)

Direct Instruction: Show the following video video pausing to explain and scaffold with questioning to check for understanding when necessary. Students should take 3-2-1 notes while watching the video. Have students share out answers and use student responses about religion to focus in on the two religions of Japan.

RESEARCH: Students will use their textbook or the internet to research either Shintoism or Japanese Buddhism (half the class will research Japanese Buddhism and half will research Shintoism). Students should complete the fill in notes and identify the major beliefs, rituals, and origin of the assigned religion.

COLLABORATION: Once the research in complete students will collaborate in pairs to compare Shintoism and Japanese Buddhism (both member should have researched different religions). Students will share their research, choose the medium in which they will present their comparison, and create their comparison.

COMMUNICATION/PRESENTATION: Students will present their comparison to the class. Students should complete a observation sheet when not presenting.

Closing: Students should complete a reflection on their collaboration and presentation skills.

Assessment:
Students will create a Poster, Diorama, Poem, Presentation (PPT or Prezi), or skit to compare Shintoism and Japanese Buddhism.

Provide research material
Intentional pairing
presentation medium can be adapted to meet individual student needs
rubric requirement for presentation can be leveled up or scaled down
fill-in the blank notes

Students create a map identify major Shinto and Buddhist Shrine sites around Japan.
Students craft a model or drawing of famous shrine.
Students create their own shrine in the Shinto or Japanese Buddhist model.

Textbook—Pearson-myWorld History and Geography
www.japan-guide.com
www.britannica .com