This lesson is designed to support A Message of Ancient Days, the sixth grade Social Studies text book adopted in San Diego City Schools. As this topic appears in various text books, it is anticipated that this WebQuest will not be specific to this text.

These items are necessary to complete this WebQuest:

• Class set of Social Studies text book with unit on Ancient India
• Internet access with browser, for pairs or small groups of students
• Word Processing software if teacher requires journal entries to be typed
• Printed Identity cards
• Printed Hindu Caste System Worksheet for each child
• Optional: printed copies of the Glossary for the students

During this unit, students will access the following websites to research the topic and play an online game to solidify concepts and new terminology.

Beginnings of The Caste System. "There are different theories about the establishment of the caste system. . . The religious theories explain. . ."

Indian's Culture Online. "Literally "colour", the caste system. The word "caste" itself comes from. . ." Explains who started the system and how it was divided.

India's Caste System. Terrific images of typical jobs and descriptions from each of the castes. Scroll down the page.

Daily Life in Ancient India "What did the ancient Indians wear? What did they eat?. . ." Written in easy to understand language.

Encyclopedia Britannica. "In South Asia the caste system has been a dominating aspect of social organization. . ." Language is more advanced.

Encarta: Caste System. "rigid social system in which a social hierarchy is maintained. . ." Provides a good description of the caste levels.

The Caste System and stages of life in Hinduism. "The pattern of social classes in Hinduism. . ."

Indian Culture Online. Descriptions of each of the following castes:

Brahmins
Kshatriyas
Vaishyas
Shudras

Maps can be found online at:

http://fsmitha.com/h1/map06ind.htm
Geography.about

The "Rags to Riches" game on the Quia website.

This lesson is designed to be implemented under the guidance of one teacher over a period of several days. Individual teachers may choose to extend or condense this lesson as he/she deems appropriate. The journal entries could be completed as homework, providing the teacher reviews and discusses the daily prompts in advance. Additional time prior to this lesson might be necessary for the teacher to become familiar with the topic. Links to benefit teachers are:

For background on the Hindu Religion:

Hinduism Outline

Hinduism Overview

Brittanica: Hinduism

Hindu Basics

India Mystica