Students will identify the cultural significance and versatility of the krama and how it is used in everyday life, including ways the krama represents various Khmer identities.
Buddhism was founded more than 2500 years ago by Siddhartha Gautama in India. After witnessing The Four Sites, Siddhartha Gautama left the palace. Siddhartha lived several years as an ascetic before obtaining enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree where he became Buddha Gautama. He composed the Four Noble Truths, four primary teachings that reflect the reality of existing in this life. Buddha Gautama established the Noble Eightfold Path as a guide to help people end the cycle of suffering. The Three Jewels of Buddhism are the Buddham, Dharma, and Sangh. Currently Three Traditions of Buddhism survive at the time of this writing: Vajrayana, Mahayana, and Theravada. Each with their own doctrine. Buddhism is the dominant religious belief of the Cambodian (Khmer) people of the World. The majority of Khmer people follow the Theravada tradition of Buddhism. The institutions of Buddhism were systematically oppressed in Cambodia under the Khmer Rouge Communist Regime from 1975–1979 resulting in the destruction of pagodas and the death of monks. Buddhism in Cambodia was restored after the Khmer Rouge Communist Regime was removed from power. (History Channel)
Through studying the City of Angkor, students will gain an understanding of the rich culture and achievements of the Khmer Empire. They will gain knowledge of the religious practices and the architecture of temples including Angkor Wat.
Students will demonstrate an understanding of the Khmer Empire's historical rise in the ninth century to its decline in the fifteenth century. Through facilitated discussions and hands-on activities about the city of Angkor, they will develop analytical skills.
