Lesson

Turkey to Afghanistan: Society and Culture

Students are introduced to the idea that buildings and landmarks have cultural value. Then they learn about the Bamiyan Buddhas in Afghanistan and their destruction by the Taliban. Next, they explore the Hagia Sophia, tracing its history and importance to Christians and Muslims alike. They compare the destruction of the Bamiyan Buddhas with the preservation of the Hagia Sophia. Finally, they create their own cultural/historical record for a landmark of their choosing.

Preview the Lesson Back to Southwest Asia and North Africa

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Overview:

In this experience, students are introduced to the idea that buildings and landmarks have cultural value. Then they learn about the Bamiyan Buddhas in Afghanistan and their destruction by the Taliban. Next, they explore the Hagia Sophia, tracing its history and importance to Christians and Muslims alike. They compare the destruction of the Bamiyan Buddhas with the preservation of the Hagia Sophia. Finally, they create their own cultural/historical record for a landmark of their choosing.

Objectives:

Describe the history of the Bamiyan Buddhas in Afghanistan and the Hagia Sophia in Turkey.
Explain the value of cultural and historical landmarks in a society.

In this experience, you’ll explore the role and value of historical and cultural landmarks in society.

Objectives:

Describe the history of the Bamiyan Buddhas in Afghanistan and the Hagia Sophia in Turkey.
Explain the value of cultural and historical landmarks in a society.

Think of a building that is important to you. Maybe it’s your house or the house of a loved one. Perhaps it’s a library, or your school, or a house of worship. You probably value that place because it represents an important aspect of your life or your community’s life.

Building demolition

Now imagine that the building you value is at risk of being torn down or changed in some damaging way. How would you respond? What would you want to do?

Post your answer

Discuss student responses. Guide students to make the connection that the building spaces they care about are important not just because they are buildings but because of what they represent.

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