Hinduism is all about doing your duty (dharma), which can sometimes be distasteful. Create a 3 panel comic makebelievecomics. You detest this task, but some of your suffering may indeed be your attitude towards the job.

Create a thought bubbles for each panel. These bubbles will reflect initial negative thoughts that morph into positive thoughts.  (Walking my dog when I get home from school sucks! I love the outdoors. I love my dog! It’s a great bonding time for us.)

When you’ve completed your task, write a short paragraph for each of the 4 prompts below. You’ll discuss these in your groups the next class:

1. Describe ways in which you feel like Arjuna.
2. How could you specifically apply the message of the Bhagavad Gita?
3. How would the ancient Indian perspective of the Bhagavad Gita be VERY different than the 21st Century American perspective of doing one’s duty?
4. Now, venture back to ancient India. Think of a way the Bhagavad Gita could be used as a tool of oppression?

 

 

 

 

The Han is the last major ancient Chinese dynasty. You’re going to create a flipped presentation about some aspect of the Han. Consult Google Classroom for specific instructions.

GOOD LUCK!

Taoism is all about finding the way or Tao. This could be discovered through contemplation, or just stop trying to force everything. One aspect of Taoism is harmony with nature. To be in harmony with nature, one has to be in tune. This is accomplished through using your senses in a non-judgmental way. When you are in nature, you need to listen, smell, look, feel, and keep your mind still and wide open. There is a whole subtle world that exists without your awareness.

Today, we are going to ignite our awareness. We are going to take a slow, conscience walk on our beautiful cross country course. We will walk at the same pace keeping 20 yards behind and 20 yards ahead of our classmates. While on this walk, suspend judgment and labels.  Also, refrain from talking. Open your senses and don’t disturb others. Experience the course for the first time. It is a gorgeous late summer day. Allow nature to come alive and teach you. Embrace the Tao!

Consider the following prompts during the walk, and then record your reflections on the back when you return:

1. What was the most powerful sensation during the walk?
2. Had you ever been on this path behind the school? If so, did you experience it differently this time?  If not, what was your impression of the walk?
3. What did you hear on the walk?
4. What did you smell on the walk?
5. What did you think on the walk?
6. How did you feel on the walk?
7. How can this experience be compared to Taoism?

Also…include an image with a caption in your post. Preferably, capture a moment from the walk!

I’m often going to ask you to express yourself with little direction. Many of you will struggle at first, but be patient! Soon, and with practice, your expressive juices will start percolating.

So…it’s time to give it a try by experiencing Chinese art. This beautiful image titled:

Walking on a Mountain Path in Spring

is a wonderful example of early Chinese art. Here’s the link to the page where I found this intriguing image:

http://www.wikiart.org/en/ma-yuan/walking-on-a-mountain-path-in-spring

Chinese art looks different than Western art. Your task is to explore this beautiful form of expression utilizing the Analyzing Primary Sources template:

Analyzing_Primary_Sources

If you’re a bit stumped on how to proceed, check out this brief article:

http://www.visual-arts-cork.com/east-asian-art/traditional-chinese.htm

Good luck…I can’t wait to read what you write!