Materials

• Map of Asia
• Overhead projector (optional)
• Teacher-selected reading, worksheet, or activity

Instructional Activities

NOTE: The following Web resources may be helpful in teaching this session:

• “The Aryans.” World Civilizations: An Internet Classroom and Anthology. <http://www.wsu.edu/~dee/ANCINDIA/ARYANS.HTM>
• “The Caste System.” <http://david.snu.edu/~dwilliam.fs/s97/india/caste.htm>

1. Review the content covered to this point in the unit.
   
   
2. Put the term Indo-Aryans on the board or overhead. Ask students to share what or whom they think this term refers to. Record their responses on the board or an overhead transparency.
   
   
3. Provide a brief history of the Aryans, using the textbook or other resource. The Web site titled “The Aryans” may be useful (see Web resources listed above).
   
   
4. Provide a map of Asia and instruct the students to trace the route the Aryans used when invading India.
   
   
5. Display the following note on the board or overhead:
   
   The Aryans migrated to India and established their dominance and a rigid caste system.
   
   
6. Explain to students what a caste system is. Provide some examples. The Web site above, titled “The Caste System,” may be of assistance.
   
   
7. Ask students to discuss whether there is a type of caste system in the United States or in their school.
   
   
8. Assign a teacher-selected reading, worksheet, or other reinforcement activity, using available teacher resources.