Sneak Peek #8: New World Geography Guide

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Carrie
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Sneak Peek #8: New World Geography Guide

Post by Carrie » Sun Feb 17, 2013 7:27 pm

Ladies,

As I have the privilage of sharing these sneak peeks with you each week, I am getting more and more enthused for this particular HOD guide! :D It is good for me to gather my thoughts as I share with each of you, and it is such a joy to be able to reveal our plans and book choices that have been many months in the choosing! :D

This particular sneak peek is very near and dear to my heart, as it is truly a part of the guide that took me a very long time to develop a plan for implementation. This is because while we desperately wanted to include a world religions and cultures course along with the study of geography, we didn't want to make it seem to the students as if we were encouraging them to embrace the various world religions as truth. We also wanted any content to be living and narrative, rather than taking a textbook approach! Consequently, we spent a long time figuring out how best to approach this very important and necessary topic. :wink:

Understanding world religions is a crucial, and often overlooked, part of understanding world geography. This is because the religions of the world dominate settlements, architecture, family structures, professions, community design, travel, worship, and government. :D To teach world geography without teaching world religions would result in a very surface view of geography, and the students would then be missing much of the "why" and "how" behind where settlements occurred and civilizations grew. :D

As students study world religions and cultures, it is also important for them to understand how each religion compares to Christianity. :D At the same time, we desire to instill in students compassion and a heart for the people of the world. We deeply desire for our children to know how to approach those of other faiths in a respectful manner that is not condescending. To do this, students need to understand those to whom they are seeking to share Christ's message of salvation. So, these became the goals of our world religions and cultures course. :D

We have designed our world religions and cultures course to be a semester credit, however we will stretch it out with daily sessions of 30 min. (4 days a week) over one full school year. It will be a required part of the World Geography guide, and the books needed for the study will be a part of the Economy Package. The course will begin with the foundational question, "But Don't All Religions Lead to God"? After that introduction, we will move into an overview of each of the major world religions and their cultures (with corresponding notebook graphic organizers for each religion). :D

After each world religion is introduced and studied, it will be followed up by reading a personal story of someone living in this religion's culture who either converted to Christianity from the particular religion studied or who lived among the people of that particular religion for many years in a ministry capacity. These types of true stories give a wonderful view of how each religion compares to Christianity, and also show how religion dominates the culture surrounding each person and affects his/her life and decisions in the day-to-day. :D

The final books in the course look at Christian worship in various places around the world to help us broaden our view of what Christianity looks like in different cultures. These books open our eyes to the joy that Christians around the world share in our Savior and to the differing ways that Christians in various cultures worship that Savior. :D

This type of course is not meant to glorify the religions of the world or to place all religions on an even plane as viable possibilities. Instead, it is meant to give students compassion for the unreached peoples of the world and to help them gain a better understanding of what those who belong to various religions believe. It is also a reminder that there should be no arrogance in us as we deal with people of other religions, because each of us are only saved from sin through the redeeming blood of our Savior! :D

Below is a listing (with descriptions from the publisher) of the books that will be used in this course. Keep in mind that not all of these resources are perfect, as the only perfect book is God's Word, and there will be some notes in the guide of a few places to discuss possible differences with your children. Yet, overall each resource is truly excellent for the role it will play in this course. :D

But Don't All Religions Lead to God? :D
We've all heard the rationale: "It doesn't matter what you believe as long as you're sincere." Or "All religions are pretty much the same." But are they the same? Does it matter which one you follow? In this insightful and compelling book, Michael Green invites readers into a relationship with Jesus Christ, the divine revelation and only pathway to the one true God.

In a conversational style geared toward nonbelievers, Green compares Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, and other religions to help spiritual seekers navigate the multi-faith maze. "But Don't All Religions Lead to God?" is an ideal reference and evangelism tool for churches and individual Christians as well. It offers scriptural references, looks at how divergent religious traditions view salvation and eternity, and answers difficult questions such as "What about people who have never heard of Jesus?" and "How should Christians regard other religions?"

In the midst of our pluralistic and tolerant culture, here is an important and convincing argument for faith in Jesus-the only great teacher whose death and resurrection provided grace, forgiveness, and an eternity in the presence of God.

World Religions: An Indispensable Introduction :D
An essential introduction to eight of the world’s major religions. Gerald R. McDermott explains what you need to understand about major world religions in order to engage people of other faiths while better understanding your own Christian faith and practice. McDermott offers an overview of the central beliefs of Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Daoism, and Shinto. Each chapter includes explanations of traditions and rituals. McDermott discusses major figures within each religion. Features include insights from members of each religious community and a glossary of important terms.

Mimosa by Amy Charmichael :D
The child of an Indian village, from a Hindu family, heard one afternoon of a God who loved her, and she lived from then on under His influence. Read this remarkable story of the girl who was embraced by the love of God and overcame every kind of opposition and trouble.

Sitting at the Feet of Rabbi Jesus :D
Gain a deeper understanding of Jesus by seeing his world through the eyes of first-century Jews! Journey back to ancient Palestine and explore the culture, customs, feasts, and prayers that shaped Christ and his disciples. You'll discover how to enrich your own faith by gaining insight into the Jewishness of Jesus. Includes suggestions for reflection, prayer, and meditation at the end of each chapter.

Sundar Singh :D
Searching since boyhood for the way to God, Sundar Singh found truth in Jesus Christ. At sixteen, the former Sikh became a Christian sadhu, or holy man, and at great risk devoted his life to Christ. With bare feet and few possessions, Sundar crossed the precarious Himalayas between India and Tibet many times, sharing the gospel with Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs. As he travled, Sundar constantly read the Bible, prayed, and meditated, confident that God was always with him, even in the face of death. Preaching in India, Europe, and as far away as America, this Indian saint impacted thousands with his quiet yet bold words and actions.

Queen of the Dark Chamber :D
Known as a child as "Too Many", she was the 18th child born to a ruling Buddhist family and also surrounded by Chinese Confucianism. This retelling of her life story brings hope and comfort as she meets the Infinite-Personal God of the Bible! Now called Christiana Tsai she would eventually be known as The Queen of the Dark Chamber. Billy Graham writes this "...Christiana Tsai has made us feel the heartbeat of a nation and has done much to interpret the sufficiency of Christ to a great and needy people." This autobiography is too good to miss.

Japan Diary :D
Veteran missionaries Larry and Lilian Driskill describe the many lessons and insights they learned as they adjusted to living in post-World War II Japan, shortly after the Japanese Emperor declared that he was not truly "divine". This revelation shocked the Japanese people and shook their Shinto belief system to its core. Like the facets of a diamond, the vignettes in this book throw light not only on life in Japan, but on what is involved in adjusting to any new culture. It also shows how the Driskills, aided by their faith, bore the fruit of acceptance into Japanese culture by planting and growing churches and schools among their Japanese friends.

I Dared to Call Him Father :D
This is the fascinating true story of Bilquis Sheikh, a prominent Muslim woman. Her unusual journey to a personal relationship with God turned her world upside down-and put her life in danger. Originally published in 1978, the book has sold 300,000 copies and is a classic in Muslim evangelism. The 25th anniversary edition includes an afterword by a missionary friend of Bilquis who plays a prominent role in the story and an appendix on how the East enriches the West.

God's Global Mosaic :D
God's people around the world form a mosaic. Each piece of the picture is different, but it contributes to a beautiful portrait of who God is and what he is doing. Each area of the world exhibits a unique aspect of the Christian faith. As we learn from these many cultural expressions of Christianity, our own faith can be made more complete. You will see God through the eyes of others; and new windows of devotion, encouragement and growth will open before you. If you want to see God as you have never seen him before, a God who is big as the whole world, this is the book for you.

Foreign to Familiar :D
If the world were roughly divided into "hot climate" and "cold climate" cultures, what could one half of humankind learn from the other? Lanier---the daughter of missionaries and an experienced world traveler---writes insightfully on topics including relationship vs. task orientation; direct vs. indirect communication; individualism vs. group identity; and different concepts of hospitality around the world. This book is a splendidly written, well researched work on cultures. Sarah's love and sensitivity for people of all nations will touch your heart!

I can truly say that each of the books in this study are fascinating and engaging in a different way! :D We pray that as your students work through this course that the stories they read will open their hearts to a deeper relationship with their Savior and to a greater understanding and love of others around the world! :D

Blessings,
Carrie

LynnH
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Location: OH
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Re: Sneak Peek #8: New World Geography Guide

Post by LynnH » Sun Feb 17, 2013 7:44 pm

Carrie again just Wow! I can't wait to read all these books myself. So just to clarify this will be a 1/2 credit that is separate from the World Geography Credit?
Mom to:
dd 22 college graduate and employed as an Intervention Specialist
ds 18 US2, Loved Preparing, CTC , RTR , Rev to Rev, MTMM ,WG, WH and US1
http://www.graceandfur.blogspot.com/

Carrie
Site Admin
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Joined: Wed Aug 15, 2007 8:39 pm

Re: Sneak Peek #8: New World Geography Guide

Post by Carrie » Sun Feb 17, 2013 7:55 pm

Lynn,

Great question! :D Yes, this will be a separate 1/2 credit beyond the full credit earned for World Geography. :D

I'm so glad that you are excited! You made my night! :D

Blessings,
Carrie

daybreaking
Posts: 312
Joined: Thu May 20, 2010 12:21 pm

Re: Sneak Peek #8: New World Geography Guide

Post by daybreaking » Sun Feb 17, 2013 8:07 pm

We have years to go before we reach this guide, but I am already THRILLED with what you have planned! This sounds absolutely fantastic!!!!! Thank you, Carrie!! :D

Wife to one amazing husband and mother to two precious blessings from above:
ds21 & dd16

davisfam7
Posts: 97
Joined: Thu Apr 14, 2011 2:36 pm
Location: Missouri

Re: Sneak Peek #8: New World Geography Guide

Post by davisfam7 » Sun Feb 17, 2013 8:27 pm

Carrie,
How did you read my mind!!! I was just discussing with a friend this afternoon how I was going to go about working in World Religions and Missionaries into our HOD year with World Geography! I am so glad that it will already be planned out for me. I knew I wanted to incorporate this into our geography because my son would find it so terribly dry with out it in there. Thanks again for a great sneak peak and for staying a step ahead of us all :D !!!!
Sarah
wife to Bobby
Taylor 22 helping @ home
Ryan 18 World History
Olivia 16 World History
Alec 13 MtMM
Jack-Attack 1 CtC
Have done Bigger, Preparing, RtR, Rev to Rev, MtMM, World Geo.

mamanlait
Posts: 259
Joined: Mon Apr 06, 2009 10:01 pm

Re: Sneak Peek #8: New World Geography Guide

Post by mamanlait » Sun Feb 17, 2013 8:29 pm

Oh...Wow!!!

I am so excited! I may, in all sincerity, purchase this World Geography curriculum for myself next fall. I am so grateful for this guide and I am certain it will bless many children and families.
I am lifting you up in prayer tonight that God will continue to guide you as you make selections for this High School program!

Many Thanks!
Amy
Currently:
dd 16 AH1 -bits & pieces (previously used Bigger, Preparing, CtC, RtR, Rev, MMtM, WG, WH)
dd 12 REV (previously used LHTH, LHfHG, Beyond, Bigger, Preparing, CtC, & RtR)

8arrows
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Joined: Tue Aug 26, 2008 4:49 pm

Re: Sneak Peek #8: New World Geography Guide

Post by 8arrows » Sun Feb 17, 2013 9:57 pm

I am really excited about this guide as well. I wanted to thank you for giving us previews as I know which books to hold off on having my children read. I really appreciate that.
Melissa, wife to Jim for 28 years
3 graduated, 2 using US 2, 8th grade dd using Missions to Marvels
Isaiah 40:11 ...He gently leads those that have young.

pjdobro
Posts: 1491
Joined: Tue Apr 15, 2008 1:45 pm

Re: Sneak Peek #8: New World Geography Guide

Post by pjdobro » Sun Feb 17, 2013 9:57 pm

I have been eagerly reading all of the sneak peaks and loving it all, but have refrained from commenting until now. I just had to say, "Wow!" This is so amazing, and I'm thrilled that as a freshman in high school my dc will be given the opportunity to look at the other world religions and cultures in this way. It's something I feel we all need, and I can't wait to delve into myself. Even though we are several years away from this guide, I may have to get it sooner so I can do this part of the study myself now! Thank you for all of your hard work Carrie! :D
Patty in NC

b/g twins '02 Rev2Rev 2014/15
previously enjoyed LHFHG, BLHFHG, Bigger, Preparing, CTC, RTR
******
Nisi Dominus Frusta (Without God, frustration)
Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Psalm 127:1

Tiffini
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Location: Indiana

Re: Sneak Peek #8: New World Geography Guide

Post by Tiffini » Sun Feb 17, 2013 10:08 pm

Oh. My. Goodness. I just can't thank God enough for how He is leading you as you seek Him in writing these guides. It is like a dream come true for me. I have wanted something exactly like this - but I just don't have the skills or time to come close to putting it together. Thank you, thank you, thank you for pouring out yourself into this guide. HOD is truly priceless to me. God bless you, Carrie! :D
Tiffini
DD (21 ) Graduated! Used HOD from 5th Grade through 12th Grade!
B/G Twins (18) Graduated! Used HOD from 3rd through 12th Grade!
DS (12) and DS (10)- Preparing Hearts
HOD Users since 2008

Kathleen
Posts: 1980
Joined: Mon Feb 11, 2008 3:23 pm
Location: NE Kansas

Re: Sneak Peek #8: New World Geography Guide

Post by Kathleen » Sun Feb 17, 2013 11:04 pm

Yes - THANK YOU Carrie! This just looks wonderful, and I can't wait to use this with Grant...and the rest down the road! Thanks for planning this study to see the people and their eternal souls as we study our world. I love it!

:D Kathleen
Homeschooling mom to 6:
Grant - 19 Kansas State University
Allison - 15 World Geography
Garret - 13 Res2Ref
Asa - 8 Bigger
Quinn - 7 Bigger

Halle - 4 LHTH

Motherjoy
Posts: 376
Joined: Mon Feb 25, 2008 7:52 pm

Re: Sneak Peek #8: New World Geography Guide

Post by Motherjoy » Mon Feb 18, 2013 9:12 am

Carrie,

Thank you so much for writing these guides. As I've looked toward high school, I've wondered more than a few times if we would continue with HOD. Not because I have any complaints, but because there are so many amazing ideas and subjects that I want to make sure we teach. Each time I question, you come on here and post a sneak peek that includes exactly the areas that I was concerned about covering. Having a program like this is such a blessing for a busy, mom-of-many like me. We have an age gap between our oldest and the next child, and then we have seven children very close together. Working through HOD's guides (we started in Preparing) has been a huge benefit to my oldest and has even taught me how to teach him. I'm excited to continue using HOD with the rest of my children. Thank you for the hard work that your family has put into this curriculum.

Beth
MJ, mom to 8
2015-2016 plan
*17yo is dual-enrolled after using HOD for 7 years
*11yo, 10yo, 9yo, and 7yo - CTC with modifications
*5yo, 4yo - LHTH
*3yo - playschool

Accomplished: LHTH, LHFHG, BHFHG, Beyond, PHFHG, RTR, Rev to Rev, MTMM, WG, WH

andreacress
Posts: 53
Joined: Tue Mar 13, 2012 5:33 pm

Re: Sneak Peek #8: New World Geography Guide

Post by andreacress » Mon Feb 18, 2013 11:53 am

This looks like an amazing addition to the World Geography guide! I'm so excited for our son to be learning these things when he gets to high school!!
Andrea in FL

ds, 10th grade, World History Guide

flackattack
Posts: 44
Joined: Thu Apr 14, 2011 10:23 pm

Re: Sneak Peek #8: New World Geography Guide

Post by flackattack » Mon Feb 18, 2013 1:29 pm

Wahooo! I wanted my ds to study world religions at some point. It makes so much more sense to have him do it while he is studying geography!
Thanks again for all your hard work in putting this together. :D
Blessings,
Katie

blessedmama
Posts: 148
Joined: Tue May 04, 2010 6:36 pm
Location: MN

Re: Sneak Peek #8: New World Geography Guide

Post by blessedmama » Mon Feb 18, 2013 4:15 pm

I LOVE how you are going to include readings from people who converted to Christianity or who were missionaries in those areas. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE that!!!!!!!

Carrie, God has blessed you with an amazing gift!!! Thank you for all of your many hours that you pour into these guides!!!! :lol:
Saved by Grace,
Sara D.

Wife of DH for 13 years! Mother to my four wonderful blessings from the Lord (DD 11; DS 10; DS 9; DD 7)

abrightmom
Posts: 470
Joined: Sat Mar 13, 2010 5:56 pm

Re: Sneak Peek #8: New World Geography Guide

Post by abrightmom » Mon Feb 18, 2013 6:40 pm

8) Amazing! Inspiring! Invigorating! I want to be homeschooled!! No fair! 8)
Katrina 8) Wife to Ben, husband extraordinaire! God is so good!
2019-2020 plans
Jax DS17 HOD subjects: US1 Lit + US2 LL + IPC
Logan DS15 MtMM + extensions
Chloe DD13 MtMM
Levi DS10 PHFHG

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