Book Description

This supplementary unit describes the two Islamic celebrations, their background and major features of their observance. It shows what, when, why and how Muslims celebrate on these two occasions, and gives a sense of their inherent values. The unit is also a case study of the unity and diversity of Muslims across the globe, an enjoyable introduction to some customs in selected countries where Muslims live and their geography. Countries were selected to include both majority and minority Muslim populations, to present a range of countries across the globe, and to represent a variety of the many ethnic groups and geographic features that make up the Muslim world community. No attempt has been made to comprehensively cover all countries, cultures or customs, as this is far beyond the scope of a unit for the primary grades. By selecting certain countries, others were necessarily excluded, although they might have served equally well. To rectify this unfortunate shortcoming, activities have been suggested that can enhance coverage to include all the nationalities represented in an individual teacher's classroom. At the same time, such a project increases student participation. All of the customs related here have either been witnessed by the author in various countries, or they were related personally by Muslims from those countries, who also assisted with the illustrations and diagrams for each custom. Finally, no attempt has been made to cover all of the customs of the country selected; rather, they were selected for variety, attractiveness to the target age group and for their relevance to and illustration of certain social studies concepts which are brought out in the teaching suggestions. In terms of the overall objectives of a social studies curriculum for first grade, the teacher will find that many skills and concepts from the first grade year are introduced or reviewed in this unit. It is recommended that the unit be placed near or between the two holidays if these fall during the school year calendar. Alternatively, the unit can serve as an addition to or substitute for standard textbook units on holidays around the world, and offers an interesting contrast and complement to such units. In reading and skill level, it corresponds roughly to the second half of the first grade year, where such holiday units are often placed.