Macmillan/McGraw-Hill
 
California Vistas Return to the Writing area
Ancient Civilizations
Ancient Civilizations
e-Journal

6.5.4 India’s Caste System

Step 1. Questions

6.5.4 Outline the social structure of the caste system in India.

Research the social structure of the caste system in India. The caste system is much more than a class system and is deeply embedded into Indian society. Find out what exactly the caste system is and how it worked. Then find out how it works today. Here are some questions to help you think about your research.
  • What is the caste system?
  • What are the levels of the caste system?
  • What is the relationship between caste and profession?
  • Does the caste system still function in Indian society? If so, how?
To begin, visit the Internet sites in Step 2. You may also choose to visit a library, read a book on the subject, or interview an adult. Then follow Step 3 to write your report.


Step 2. Research

Research answers for the questions you were asked in Step 1. Visit these Web sites. Take notes about them on this page, too!


Toolbox Tip: Click here for tips on using search engines.


India’s Caste System
What is a caste? What does the author of the web site say about what the caste system does for Indian society?
Take Notes:



More on Castes in India
What are the levels of the caste system? Does the author believe that the caste system is a good thing for Indian society and if so, why?
Take Notes:



National Geographic: Untouchable
What is an “Untouchable” within India’s caste system? What precept does the author claim is the foundation of the caste system? Does the author believe that the caste system is a good thing for Indian society and if so, why? If not, why not? Take notes about any other details you learn about India’s caste system. Is the caste system still legal in India? How is this ancient system of ordering society functioning in India today?
Take Notes:



Search Engines
ToolBox Tip: Click here for tips on using search engines.

www.yahooligans.com
www.kidsclick.org


or


Leave e-Journal