Introduction to history

In this unit, the students will learn that studying history or any knowledge is similar to setting up on a journey. Before they set on any journey, they need to know their intention, their destination, why they are on this journey, and the steps it takes to reach it.

They will learn from the companions how to improve their intentions. They will also be introduced to the study of history, it’s purpose from the Quran, the Hadith and words of great scholars of this Ummah. They will be given five reasons to study history and five steps to take to learn any knowledge in their life. Hopping this will motivate them and triggers their curiosity to take on this fascinating journey.

Start off with the PowerPoint presentation on the introduction to history. Print for them the presentation notes where they can follow the PPT and look for the missing words on their notes. Let them write their own intentions for studying history. Print the poem of Rudyard Kipling (I Keep Six Honest Serving Men) and stick it to the fridge or on their study desk, let them memorize it and chant it throughout the week. Let them also make a nice poster of the five steps to reach knowledge of Imam al Asma’I and stick it on a wall near their desk to remind them of these critical steps to excel in their learning. After finishing the introductory presentation, print for them the summary sheet where they can summarize what they have learned so far about what history is and why do we need to learn it including a Qur’anic verse they learned and a quote from a scholar. A quote worksheet is available for the mature students, let them analyze and discuss these quotes to help them develop their thinking skills. At the end of this unit, print the scavenger hunt worksheet and let them browse their books and encyclopedias for a historical event where they will be asking the six questions historians ask to understand an event, let them answer these questions about their selected event.