1. Warm Up: Complete the “Perceptions of American Teenagers” handout.
Objective: To recognize, reflect on, and correct our misconceptions about Islam and Muslims.
Warm Up: Complete the “Perceptions of American Teenagers” handout.

2. Rise and Expansion of Islam *Essential Questions*
In what ways can preexisting geographic and cultural realities influence the development of a new religion?
What is the relationship between Islam, Christianity, and Judaism?
What challenges arise due to the nature of revealed religions?
In what ways do religious practices reflect the values of a religious community?
Why is it important to recognize and appreciate contributions of groups or individuals?

3. Rise and Expansion of Islam *Essential Questions*
In what ways did the geography of the Arabian Peninsula impact the development of Islam?
How did Muhammad’s early experiences influence and shape the faith that he would later preach?
What characteristics are shared between the three monotheistic religions – Judaism, Christianity, & Islam?
In what ways do the fundamental beliefs and practices of Islam reflect the experiences of Muhammad’s early life?
What cultural, political, and economic factors created the circumstances that allowed for the Golden Age of Islam?
What contributions were made to modern civilization developed in places like Cordoba, Cairo, and Baghdad during the Golden Age of Islam?
How did a spirit of tolerance and acceptance facilitate progress in the Islamic Empire?

5. In your groups… Read and highlight the reading you were given.
Prepare to explain to the rest of the class both the misconception about Islam and Muslims, as well as the truth of the matter.

6. Misconceptions of Muslims and Islam
Myth
Reality
Misconception 1: "Arab" and "Muslim" refer to the same people.
Misconception 2: Muslims are fanatics.
Misconception 3: Islam is fundamentally different from Christianity and Judaism.

7. Misconceptions of Muslims and Islam
Myth
Reality
 Misconception 4: Islam is oppressive toward women
Misconception 5: The Middle East is one big sandy desert with lots of camels, populated by... men in turbans and long white robes... women in black with their faces covered... men waving long curved swords... harems with scantily clad women serving one man... husbands with four wives... rich oil sheikhs... and terrorists.

8. Misconceptions of Muslims and Islam
Myth
Reality
Misconception 6: Muslims hate all non-believers, and our cultural differences are insurmountable.
Misconception 7: Islam is violent.

9. Exit Ticket:
Describe one misconception about Muslims and /or Islam that you have experienced in your life. Where do you think that misconception came from?

10. Homework:
Read pages and complete the first two sections of the chapter 8 two-column notes packet. *Due Tuesday 10/9*