Lesson 3: Graphic Organizer Assignment

Goals and Objectives:

Students will learn about Buddhism and the different ways it has evolved in Japan. In doing so
students will be able to identify the beliefs that are unique to Buddhism, and be able to
demonstrate differences in the forms of Japanese Buddhism.

Content Standard Addressed:

7.5 Students analyze the geographic, political, economic, religious, and social structures of the civilizations of
Medieval Japan.

4. Trace the development of distinctive forms of Japanese Buddhism.

Graphic Organizer Assignment:

Students will create cluster maps to compare and contrast the different forms of Japanese
Buddhism.
Students are expected to use sources provided for Buddhism to be able to summarize
differences or similarities.
Students are encouraged to refer to the rubric to ensure that they get the highest grade
possible for this assignment.
Students are required to work in groups of no more than 2-3 students per group. Please
note that each student is responsible for turning in their own copy of the cluster map.
Students are encourage to use popplet, but can create their cluster maps on poster board
as well.
Student made cluster maps must include as a minimum:
(1) image specific to each form of Buddhism, which can be used in identifying the
specific form of Buddhism, or used to identify something specific about a form of
Buddhism.
(1) cluster of information PER form of Buddhism must include when it started, or
introduced to Japan, and if possible by whom.
(5) clusters of information PER form of Buddhism.
(7) clusters of information PER form of Buddhism is thus required for full credit for
this assignment.
Different forms of Buddhism required for this assignment include: Pure Land, Zen,
and Nichiren.
Students are expected to show evidence that each attributed in the completion of this
assignment (in the case of popplet, it does this for you).
Students are required to turn in a hard copy of the assignment, for those unfamiliar
with popplet ask how to export your work.
 Students will be expected to present their work to class, note: this is part of your
grade.

Provided Websites for Assignment:

From Buddha.net, Part 1: A Brief History of Buddhism in Japan.

From ThoughtCo., Buddhism in Japan: A Brief History

From Asia Society, Buddhism in Japan

From Japan-Guide.com, Buddhism

From Khan Academy, Buddhism in Japan recommend watching the short youtube video on the
following page as well.

From OnMarkProductions, Students Condensed Guide: Japanese Buddhism and Buddhist

Statuary as well as Mahayana School before Buddhism in Japan

Students are heavily encouraged to use the sites provided, any clear use of Wikipedia will
result in a lower score overall for the assignment.