Different Beliefs Around the World
Learning Goals:
- Learn new words about religion and different belief systems.
- Talk about major world religions and different ways of thinking.
- Read about different beliefs from around the world.
- Listen to a conversation about finding common ground between different religions.
- Write about why understanding other beliefs is important.
Key Words:
- Religion: A system of beliefs about the world, often including a god or gods.
- Belief: Something that a person or group thinks is true.
- Faith: Strong belief in something, even without proof.
- Philosophy: The study of ideas about knowledge, truth, and the meaning of life.
- God/gods: A being or beings that people worship.
World Religions:
- Christianity: A religion based on the teachings of Jesus Christ.
- Islam: A religion based on the teachings of the prophet Muhammad.
- Buddhism: A religion focused on finding peace and ending suffering.
- Hinduism: A religion with many gods and goddesses.
- Judaism: A religion that follows the teachings of the Torah.
Let’s Talk About It!
- What are some religions you know about?
- What do you think are some important things that religions teach? (Love, kindness, peace, honesty, helping others)
- Have you ever talked to someone from a different religion? What did you learn?
Let’s Read!
People around the world have many different beliefs. Some believe in one God, others believe in many gods. Some people follow a religion, and others don’t. Even though we have different beliefs, we can still respect and learn from each other.
Listen and Learn!
(Teacher plays a short conversation between people from different religions who are talking about what they have in common.)
Talk with a Partner!
One of you is a person from one religion. The other is from a different religion. Talk about some of your beliefs and traditions.
Example:
- Person 1: “In my religion, we celebrate a holiday called (name of holiday).”
- Person 2: “That’s interesting! In my religion, we have a similar celebration called (name of holiday). We do this during this celebration…”
Homework:
Write a short paragraph about why you think it’s important to understand people with different beliefs.
Extra Fun:
If you can, research a religion you don’t know much about. Share what you learned with the class!
