1. Warmup 11/27
Religion plays a BIG part in most people’s lives. Do you agree or disagree? Explain in 5-6 sentences. Week of 11/27-12/01

2. Vocabulary HW
1. Monotheism 2. Polytheism 11. Divine 13. Suffering 14. Salvation Complete an activity for the following words tonight!

3. RELIGION

4. What is Religion?
Religion: a unified system of beliefs and practices concerned with sacred things
SACRED: holy (set apart and given special meaning that transcends immediate existence)
SECULAR: wordly
Philosophy: A system of values by which one lives
Focus on culture and social aspects not validity
Exists in some form in all societies

5. Functions of Religion--Why?
Gives formal approval to existing social arrangements
Encourages sense of unity
Provides sense of understanding
Promotes sense of belonging

6. Create a Religion Activity
In an effort to understand the structure and general “objectives” of various world religions, I would like you to create your own religion. You are going to create an informative brochure that outlines your new religion. You will need the following information:
1. What is the name of your religion? What, if any, significance does the name hold?
2. What are the main tenants/beliefs of your new religion? (List and explain 3-5)
3. Who is/are the founder(s)? Why/how did they become founders?
4. What types of actions and or beliefs does a person need to do/have to join?
5. What is the main form of worship (describe a typical “service”) and where does it take place? What specific rituals are performed and why?

7. 6. What are the major symbols associated with your religion (show in a graphic of some sort) and what does each symbol stand for/mean/what is its significance?
7. How is your religion structured/organized? (How many in charge, what are their positions/“jobs”). What is the purpose of your group?
8. Do you have a god/goddess? How many? What is the name of this diety? What powers do they hold?
9. What are the chief celebrations/observances/holidays of your religion? (Explain and describe including their names) What time of the year do they occur and why?
10. Describe your religions views and beliefs regarding Creation/beginning of life.
11. What does your religion state/believe about the afterlife? (Describe) Are there certain requirements for believers regarding eligibility for that afterlife?
12. List and describe the major books or texts of your religion.
Your brochure or pamphlet should be aimed at giving the reader an overview of your religion. The brochure or pamphlet should contain a minimum of 4 pictures/graphics that aid the reader in understanding your religion.