Message from nmacanish

[Anonymous]

I read a few posts from other people who use the History Alive curriculum. I've also used many of their lessons to teach India and China. I really like their activity on the Silk Road. The students get to act out what trading was like for people on the Silk Road. They also get a birds eye view of how culture, religion, and language were also exchanged as a result of trade.

My students from last year were able to explain the difficulties related to travel and the dangers of bandits and weather. I think it's a great kinesthetic way to introduce the idea of the Silk Road.

My second favorite lesson is the mandala of Hindu beliefs. The students are required to create a mandala in order to illustrate the main tenets of Hinduism. Attached with the lesson is some beautiful portrayals of Hindu beliefs. The students were really able to think of some creative ways in which to illustrate Hindu beliefs. They were also really excited by the idea of karma and being reborn. I told them that if they didn't listen then in their next life they would come back as a lower life form! I think some of them might have believed me!