Islam

Islam is a monotheistic Abrahamic religion based on the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, who is considered the last prophet by Muslims. It is the second-largest religion in the world, with over 1.8 billion followers, known as Muslims.

Key Beliefs

Belief in One God (Allah): Muslims believe in the oneness of God and that Muhammad is his messenger.
Five Pillars of Islam: These are the five basic acts of worship that are considered the foundation of a Muslim's faith and practice. They include Shahada (declaration of faith), Salat (prayer), Zakat (almsgiving), Sawm (fasting during Ramadan), and Hajj (pilgrimage to Mecca).
Quran: The holy book of Islam, believed to be the word of God as revealed to Muhammad.

History

Islam was founded in the early 7th century in the Arabian Peninsula. The Prophet Muhammad is believed to have received revelations from God, which were later compiled into the Quran. After Muhammad's death, his followers spread Islam across the Arabian Peninsula and beyond.

Spread and Influence

Islam spread rapidly through military conquests, trade, and missionary activities. It had a significant impact on various regions, including the Middle East, North Africa, Spain, Central Asia, the Indian subcontinent, and Southeast Asia.

Branches of Islam

Islam has two main branches: Sunni and Shia. The division arose from a disagreement over the rightful successor to Muhammad. Sunni Muslims make up the majority of the Muslim population, while Shia Muslims are the minority.

Conclusion

Islam has played a major role in shaping the culture, art, science, and politics of the societies in which it has taken root. It continues to be a significant force in the modern world.

◂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.