Virtual Voyager #4 - Religion

So far in our study of ancient civilizations we have encountered Judaism, Zoroastrianism, Hinduism, and Buddhism.  We have also experienced Confucianism and Daoism as well as the varied beliefs of Mesopotamia and Egypt.  Regardless of who you are, where you live, or when you live, there are family or cultural ideas that direct the thoughts, actions, and deeds of a society. 

Your task is to research the religion or ideals practiced by the people in your assigned country.


1.  Start by finding your country on Yahoo Kids (http://kids.yahoo.com/reference/world-factbook).  Hint:  They are in alphabetical order!  

2.  Then, click the PEOPLE tab and scroll down to RELIGIONS.  Please note your country might have more than one.  Please report on the religion with the largest following.  If you are not familiar with the religion, make sure you visit URI Kids (http://www.uri.org/kids/world_hind.htm) and read about your country's religion.

3.  Lastly, return to the blog and report your findings in one of our Write to Learn strategies such as Think Back, 3-Minute Pause, 3-2-1, Dice, or RAFT. 

Virtual Voyager #3 - Government

Whose the boss?  Your country doesn't run by itself and once you understand who is in power and the definition of that power, you will begin to see how a government impacts society and economy.  Your task is to research your country's government type and define it, to identify your country's leader(s) and their titles, and to summarize the length of time that person(s) is in power.

Begin by using Yahoo Kids World Factbook (http://kids.yahoo.com/reference/world-factbook) to look up your country.  When you open your country, click on the government tab.  READ the headings to locate desired information.  Then, using Kids Net (http://encyclopedia.kids.net.au/page/fo/Form_of_government) find your country's government type to learn more about it.

Reflect on the following questions and post your response on the blog.

3 =  List your country's capital city, the date of elections, and the length of service.

2 = Name 2 official leaders and their titles.

1 = In your opinion, what does that government type mean for your country and its people?