To fully value religious freedom, it helps to first appreciate the diversity of religious thought and belief among the world's peoples. This activity will help students learn more about three major world religions -- Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism -- as practiced in India, Saudi Arabia, and Thailand.

Begin by dividing the class into three groups. Assign each group to research one of the following religions and have them read the appropriate CultureGrams report of that religion:

Religion: Country Report: Section
Islam: Saudi Arabia: Five pillars of Islam (Kids Edition) | Religion (World Edition)
Hinduism: India: Hinduism (Kids Edition) | Religion (World Edition)
Buddhism: Thailand: Buddhism (Kids Edition) | Religion (World Edition)

As they read, students should take notes, listing the major aspects of the assigned religion. Group members should then prepare a brief presentation on the religion to give to the class. Each student in the group may present one of the aspects they discovered.

After the presentations are finished, brainstorm a more comprehensive list of world religions as a class. Then discuss the importance of religious freedom, which allows followers of every religion to practice according to their beliefs. As an extension activity, assign brief research papers on religions not discussed at length in class.