Windows into Buddhism

• 237CRituals for Personal and Group Practice

  Research ritual traditions across Buddhist cultures and contemporary communities; analyze how rituals adapt to different contexts while preserving essential meaning; and synthesize understanding by creating culturally informed ritual practices that bridge traditional elements with modern community needs.
• 221CThe Life Story of the Buddha Shakyamuni

  Research the historical Buddha’s life using multiple sources and timelines; analyze how his personal experiences shaped his teachings; and evaluate the universal themes in his journey that relate to contemporary challenges and personal growth.
• 136CThe Vinaya and Codes of Conduct

  Analyze the relationship between individual ethics and community agreements using Buddhist frameworks; evaluate the effectiveness of different approaches to creating and maintaining group harmony; and synthesize understanding by developing criteria for assessing whether community agreements support both personal growth and collective flourishing.
• 304Sacred Space and Objects

  Experience sacred objects through multiple senses by touching, arranging, and caring for altar items; create personal sacred spaces using natural materials; and demonstrate respectful behavior in special places through gentle movements, quiet voices, and careful handling of precious objects.
• 234DBuddha, Dharma, and Sangha

  Analyze the three jewels as a comprehensive ethical decision-making framework; evaluate how this system addresses complex moral dilemmas; and synthesize understanding by applying the three refuges to contemporary ethical challenges while demonstrating knowledge of their traditional Buddhist context.
• 221The Life Story of the Buddha Shakyamuni

  Analyze the Buddha’s life within the social, political, and religious context of ancient India; evaluate how his background as a prince influenced his later teachings; and assess the revolutionary nature of his message within the caste system of his time.
• 136DThe Vinaya and Codes of Conduct

  Analyze the historical development of the Vinaya within its cultural context and evaluate its adaptation across different Buddhist societies; compare monastic codes with contemporary institutional policies to understand how spiritual principles translate into practical governance; and synthesize understanding by examining how traditional wisdom can inform modern community building while respecting cultural diversity.
• 117BThe Five Precepts

  Implement the five children’s precepts (reverence for life, generosity, body responsibility, harmonious speech, mindful consumption) in daily activities; practice asking permission, sharing resources, and speaking truthfully; and reflect on how following these guidelines affects classroom harmony and personal well-being.
• 136AThe Vinaya and Codes of Conduct

  Compare family rules, classroom agreements, and simple community guidelines by identifying what makes each group work well together; demonstrate how different families and communities create helpful rules; and practice following agreements that help everyone feel safe and included in different settings.