Lesson Plan: Early Japan - Geography & Settlement, Shinto, Prince Shotoku, and the Nara Period
Grade Level: 6
Subject: History
Duration: 50 Minutes
DOK Level: 2-3
Standards Aligned: [Insert relevant US history standards here]
Lesson Objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
- Describe the geographical features of early Japan and how they influenced settlement patterns.
- Explain the basic beliefs and practices of Shinto.
- Summarize the contributions of Prince Shotoku to Japanese society.
- Identify key characteristics of the Nara Period and its significance in Japanese history.
Materials Needed
- Map of Early Japan
- Whiteboard and markers
- Projector and screen
- Handouts on Shinto beliefs and practices
- Biography materials on Prince Shotoku
- Nara Period timeline handouts
- Assessment worksheets
Lesson Outline
Introduction (10 Minutes)
- Hook Activity: Begin with a short video clip introducing Japan’s geography and its significance in the historical context. (3 minutes)
- Discussion: Ask students what they already know about Japan's geography and how they think it might affect where people live. (4 minutes)
- Learning Objectives: Present the objectives of the lesson and explain what students will be doing. (3 minutes)
Direct Instruction (20 Minutes)
A. Geography and Settlement (10 Minutes)
- Key Features: Discuss Japan’s mountainous terrain, coastal areas, and the influence of the sea on its development.
- Activity: Hand out maps of Japan. Students will label significant geographical features, such as mountains, rivers, and major islands. (5 minutes)
B. Introduction to Shinto (10 Minutes)
- Overview of Shinto: Define Shinto and discuss its belief system, including kami (spirits) and rituals.
- Class Activity: Students will work in pairs to read a handout on Shinto traditions and identify three key concepts. Each pair will share their findings with the class. (5 minutes)
Guided Practice (10 Minutes)
A. Prince Shotoku’s Contributions
- Lecture: Briefly introduce Prince Shotoku, highlighting his key reforms, including the Constitution of Seventeen Articles and his support for Buddhism.
- Small Group Discussion: In groups, students will discuss how these reforms might have changed the structure of Japanese society. (5 minutes)
Independent Practice (5 Minutes)
- Nara Period Overview: Provide a brief timeline of the Nara Period, stating key events and developments.
- Individual Work: Students will write a short reflection on what they think was the most significant change during the Nara Period. (5 minutes)
Assessment (5 Minutes)
- Assessment Overview: Distribute worksheets that include both multiple-choice and short-answer questions covering the major topics discussed: geography, Shinto beliefs, Prince Shotoku's contributions, and the Nara Period.
Possible Assessment Questions (examples):
-
Multiple-Choice: What is one way geography affected early Japanese settlement?
- A) More people settled in deserts
- B) Coastal areas were more populated due to fishing resources.
- C) Inland areas had the most people.
- D) Agriculture was not important.
-
Short Answer: Describe one key belief in Shinto and its significance to Japanese culture.
Closure (5 Minutes)
- Recap: Summarize the major themes covered in the lesson.
- Exit Ticket: Students will write down one fact they found interesting and one question they still have regarding early Japan.
Homework/Extension Activities
- Optional Assignment: Research a Shinto shrine and prepare a short presentation or poster for the next class.
- Reading Assignment: Read about another historical figure from early Japan and prepare to share their contributions in the next lesson.
This lesson plan aims to engage sixth-grade students with the rich history of early Japan while facilitating a deeper understanding of how geography, culture, and notable figures shaped the nation.