This teaching packet, designed for students in grades 6 through 9, explores the role of rulers in ancient Mesopotamian society and examines the depiction of those rulers in Mesopotamian art. Students are encouraged to compare present-day political leaders with ancient Mesopotamian rulers. The guide includes: (1) background information for…

This teacher's resource packet gives a brief history of the Japanese Warrior from the Old Tombs Period, 3rd-6th centuries A.D., to the end of the Edo Period in the 19th century, and explains Bushido, the ethical warrior code. Warrior artifacts, armor, helmets, and swords are discussed. Literature, exemplified by the 12th century historical…

Tomb art provides an invaluable window into China's history and culture. The understanding that spirits of dead ancestors can exert power and influence over the lives of their descendants has been a central tenet of the Chinese belief system, propelling the culture into practices ensuring the provision of comfort and status to the deceased in…

Sacred women have been portrayed throughout the history of India and Southeast Asia. Some were depicted as consorts to the Hindu gods and regarded as the necessary force that activates male energy. Other images arose out of local fertility cults and represented uncontrolled feminine energy that could be terrifying in aspect. The calmer Buddhist…

This packet includes a description of the geography of Iran, known as Ancient Persia and gives information about Persian Art. Both pre-Islamic and Islamic influences are discussed. The "Slide List" introduces 21 slides provided with the packet and describes them in the "Slide Descriptions." The packet includes a "Slide…

This curriculum packet is based on a National Public Radio series of 10 one-hour programs produced in India between 1986 and 1989. The tape cassette is designed to introduce middle and high school students to the people and land of India. The three programs on the tape include: (1) "Listening to India," which exposes the listener to the…

This guide and its accompanying videotape are designed to provide students with an overview of the nations of the Pacific region. Three activities emphasize a different aspect of East-West contact: geography, history, and economics. Each activity uses student handouts and can be completed in one to three class periods. Activities include: (1)…

This guide and its accompanying videotape are designed to provide students with an overview of how Japan has become the second richest nation on earth, despite its small size and limited natural resources. Three activities emphasize key issues in the U.S.-Japanese relations, especially issues related to trade. Each activity uses student handouts…

This "Teacher's Guide" and "Student Workbook" accompany a videotape and poster map in a package intended to introduce the heritage, historical events, customs and beliefs of the Haitian people, with emphasis on the valuable contributions of the African-American culture. The student workbook contains a summary of the video…

This text introduces Fiji and other island nations located in the Pacific, the world's largest ocean. Cut off from the world by vast expanses of water, these people developed a unique culture. Contents include: Teacher Overview, Geography of the South Pacific Islands, History of the South Pacific, Fiji, Traditional Village Life, Yaquna Ceremony,…

Nigeria is Africa's most populous nation, and one of its richest. During the 1970s, oil prices fueled rapid development. With world-wide crude oil prices now fluctuating, the future of this diverse, turbulent country is uncertain. The unit contains three sections: the Text, Suggestions for the Teacher, and the Slide-Tape Script. An overview of the…

Not only is India one of the oldest continuous civilizations in the world, it has also become one of the greatest industrial nations. This package explores India's heritage, its people, and the traumatic changes of the 20th century. Contents include: Introduction, Climate, The Land, Cities, Agriculture, Rural Life, History, Religions, Dress, Food,…

Jamaica is known mainly as a tourist playground and the home of Reggae music. This Jamaican teaching unit dispels stereotypes and shows Jamaica for what it really is--an economically-troubled, developing nation. The unit illustrates the challenges this island nation is facing in its struggle toward economic development. Contents are: Teacher…

The text explores Mexico's history, geography, art, religion, and lifestyles in the context of its complex economy. The text focuses on Mexico's economy and reasons for its current situation. Part I of this teaching unit includes: Teacher Overview, Why Study Mexico, Mexico Fact Sheet, Map of Mexico, the Land and Climate, History, Government,…