The Medieval Islamic World
Impressive medieval Islamic empires ruled over a large part of the world, stretching from India to Spain and parts of Africa. It was the most advanced empire of the time. In this workshop, we will focus on three aspects of the medieval Islamic world—art, science and wisdom. Students will be introduced to medieval Islamic art and architecture, focusing on the Dome of the Rock. For the first activity, students will create mosaic art, incorporating Arabic letters, which are the focus of medieval Islamic art. Next, the students will learn about the interest in other people, cultures and wisdom in Baghdad. The Islamic empires were interested to learn and sought books from all over the world. When the books were brought to Baghdad, they were translated into Arabic as part of a major translation project. People working on the translation project came from all over the world to Baghdad, from Europe, from India. For an activity, students will write a short story about life in Baghdad, which will include at least three characters from different parts of the world. Lastly, students will learn about advances in science made during this time. The life of Ibn Sīnā (known as Avicenna) will be narrated, and some of the medical surgical instruments developed during this time shown to students. Can they guess what each of the instruments were used for?
Illustration from a manuscript: The Silvery Water
Curriculum for Excellence subjects and skills:
SOC 2-16c: I can discuss issues of the diversity of cultures, values and customs in our society.
SOC 2 19a: By comparing the lifestyle and culture of citizens in another country with those of Scotland, I can discuss the similarities and differences.
EXA 2-04a: Through observing and recording from my experiences across the curriculum, I can create images and objects which show my awareness and recognition of detail.
RME 2-06a: I am increasing my knowledge and understanding of different forms of worship and artefacts within world religions and can explain their importance for followers of world religions.
RME 2-09a: I am increasing my understanding of how people come to have their beliefs, and further developing my awareness that there is a diversity of belief in modern Scotland.
National Curriculum subjects and skills:
History: Learning about a non-European society that provides contrast with Britain, early Islamic civilization (including a study of Baghdad c. AD 900). Understanding significant aspects of the history of the wider world, understanding similarity and differences between cultures and societies, drawing contrasts.
Geography: Pupils will learn to name and locate some of the worlds’ continents and oceans, to use basic geographical terms such as river, valley, sea, ocean, port, mountain, forest, season, city, town, village, shop. They will engage with maps, atlases and aerial photographs.
Art: Learning about great artists and architects in history. Pupils will have the opportunity to improve their mastery of art and design techniques.
Science: Learning about the human body, and how parts of it function, and engage with scientific equipment.
English: In narratives, creating settings, characters and plots.
RE:. Developing understanding of concepts and mastery of skills to make sense of religion and belief.