Easter

Easter is a Christian holiday that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. It is considered the most important and oldest festival of the Christian Church. The date of Easter varies each year, as it is based on the lunar calendar. In Western Christianity, Easter falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the vernal equinox. In Eastern Christianity, Easter falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the vernal equinox, which can be up to a month later than the Western Easter.

History of Easter

The origins of Easter can be traced back to ancient pagan festivals celebrating the arrival of spring. The name "Easter" is believed to have been derived from Eostre, a Teutonic goddess of spring and fertility. When Christianity spread throughout Europe, the celebration of Easter became associated with the resurrection of Jesus Christ, and many of the pagan traditions were incorporated into the Christian holiday.

Traditions and Symbols

Many Easter traditions and symbols have both Christian and pagan origins. The most recognized symbol of Easter is the Easter egg, which symbolizes the empty tomb of Jesus. The egg is also a symbol of new life and fertility, representing the resurrection and the arrival of spring. Other traditions include the Easter bunny, Easter parades, and the custom of giving Easter baskets filled with candy and eggs.

Study Guide

What is the significance of Easter in the Christian Church?
How is the date of Easter determined?
What are the origins of the name "Easter"?
Explain the symbolism of the Easter egg.
Discuss the origins of the Easter bunny and other Easter traditions.

Use this study guide to prepare for your lesson on Easter. Understanding the history, traditions, and symbolism of Easter will give you a deeper insight into the significance of this holiday in the Christian faith.

◂Social Studies Worksheets and Study Guides Eighth Grade. Ancient Israel

The resources above cover the following skills:

National Curriculum Standards for Social Studies (NCSS)

TIME, CONTINUITY, AND CHANGE

SOCIAL STUDIES PROGRAMS SHOULD INCLUDE EXPERIENCES THAT PROVIDE FOR THE STUDY OF THE PAST AND ITS LEGACY.

KNOWLEDGE - Learners will understand:

Key historical periods and patterns of change within and across cultures (e.g., the rise and fall of ancient civilizations, the development of technology, the rise of modern nation-states, and the establishment and breakdown of colonial systems).

National Center for History in Schools (NCHS)

Historical Thinking Standards

Historical Comprehension

Reconstruct the literal meaning of a historical passage.

World History Content Standards

Era 2: Early Civilizations and the Emergence of Pastoral Peoples, 4000-1000 BCE

The major characteristics of civilization and how civilizations emerged in Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Indus valley.

The student understands how Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Indus valley became centers of dense population, urbanization, and cultural innovation in the fourth and third millennia BCE.

The student understands how commercial and cultural interactions contributed to change in the Tigris-Euphrates, Indus, and Nile regions.

Major trends in Eurasia and Africa from 4000-1000 BCE.

The student understands major trends in Eurasia and Africa from 4000 to 1000 BCE.

Era 3: Classical Traditions, Major Religions, and Giant Empires, 1000 BCE-300 CE

Innovation and change from 1000-600 BCE horses, ships, iron, and monotheistic faith.

The student understands the emergence of Judaism and the historical significance of the Hebrew kingdoms.

Easter

History of Easter

Traditions and Symbols

Study Guide

[Easter] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

◂Social Studies Worksheets and Study Guides Eighth Grade. Ancient Israel

The resources above cover the following skills: