Band E (Ages 15-18)

• 322EDharma

  Differentiate between dharma as teaching methodology and dharma as ultimate truth; evaluate how core Buddhist principles function as practical tools for understanding suffering and its cessation; and implement systematic application of dharma teachings while documenting their effectiveness in developing wisdom and reducing harmful mental habits.
• 323EPramana

  Evaluate how we know what’s real by analyzing the two key ways of knowing: direct experience and inference (logical reasoning); assess how differentiating between clear and confused thinking supports better decision-making and helps avoid the ignorance that keeps us stuck in suffering; integrate this understanding by applying these principles to real-life situations, demonstrating how valid ways of knowing (cognition) helps us distinguish between how things seem (appearance) and how they really are (reality), both in everyday life and in meditation.
• 234EBuddha, Dharma, and Sangha

  Analyze which qualities of the Buddha, the teachings, and group practices resonate personally, and evaluate why these elements are meaningful, interesting or inspiring to your own path.
• 237ERituals for Personal and Group Practice

  Analyze various ritual forms that support personal practice, and design simple rituals that effectively guide and inspire group practice.
• 224ECross-Cultural Dialogue

  Design thoughtful, respectful questions to investigate others’ beliefs and lineage, balancing confidence, tact, and humility, and evaluate how this approach enhances cross-cultural understanding.
• 225EHomage and Praise as Practice

  Actively pay homage and express gratitude to those who have taught, guided, and transmitted wisdom—showing appreciation for those who bring us closer to the truth.
• 226EGreat Patrons of Buddhism

  Compare and contrast the contributions of at least three significant Buddhist patrons across different historical periods and cultural contexts; analyze how patronage has been essential for dharma preservation and transmission; and evaluate contemporary opportunities for supporting the practice and preservation of the buddhadharma while implementing specific actions that contribute to wisdom and compassion in modern contexts.
• 227ETransmission of the Dharma

  Analyze the role of lineage in preserving authentic dharma transmission across generations and cultures; evaluate contemporary methods of communicating Buddhist teachings (digital media, arts, education) against traditional oral and textual transmission; and synthesize understanding by creating innovative approaches to dharma communication that maintain authenticity while engaging modern audiences effectively.
• 228EUnseen Beings

  Analyze the role of unseen beings across Buddhist traditions, and differentiate the unique qualities attributed to commonly referenced non-human entities. Evaluate how these symbolic relationships support practitioners’ cultivation of positive qualities such as protection, wisdom, and compassion.