In small groups students will work together to create a 10-12 slide PowerPoint presentation on one of the following religions or philosophies: Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, Sikhism, Confucianism, Taoism, and Shinto. In these cooperative groups members will be given a specific role: Researcher, Computer Tech, and Presenter.

Curriculum Area: World History/World Religions
Grade Level: Middle School
Skills Developed: working cooperatively in small groups, utilizing the library and computers for research, creating an effective presentation
Student Grouping: groups of three students
Time: 5 class periods
Technology Used: Internet, PowerPoint

Procedure:

1. Students will be put into groups of three and assigned a religion to research.

2. In each group, students will be assigned a particular role: Researcher, Computer Tech, or Presenter. See the Student Directions handout for full instructions.

3. Students will spend two days researching in the library, led by the Researcher. Outside research is strongly encouraged.

4. Students will spend two days putting the information gathered into a storyboard for a PowerPoint presentation. We've included guidelines for creating effective PowerPoint presentations.

5. Students make presentations before the entire class.

6. Students will fill in a chart that includes the basic information for each religion/philosophy as groups are presenting their assigned topic.

7. Students will be graded according to a rubric.

7. Students will discuss the question, "Why study religion?"

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