📖 Reading Passage: The Origins of Islam

Islam began around 610 CE in the Arabian Peninsula. A man named Muhammad lived in the city of Mecca. Muslims believe that Muhammad was chosen by God (called Allah in Arabic) to be a prophet.

Muhammad received messages from God through the angel Gabriel. These messages became the holy book of Islam called the Quran. Muhammad taught people to worship only one God and to live good lives.

At first, many people in Mecca did not like Muhammad's teachings. In 622 CE, Muhammad and his followers moved to the city of Medina. This journey is called the Hijra and marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar.

Islam spread quickly across the Middle East and beyond. After Muhammad died in 632 CE, his followers continued to share Islamic teachings. Within 100 years, Islam had spread from Spain to India.

Muslims built a great civilization. They made important discoveries in math, science, and medicine. They also built beautiful mosques and preserved knowledge from ancient times.

📝 Success Criteria - I Can Statements:

• I can explain when and where Islam began

• I can identify Muhammad as the founder of Islam

• I can describe how Islam spread to other regions

• I can recognize the importance of Islamic civilization

🧠 Part 1: Multiple Choice Questions

✏️ Part 2: Short Answer Questions

The founder of Islam was named _______________. He lived in the city of _______________.

🎯 Differentiation Strategies:

For struggling learners: Read the passage aloud, highlight key words, use a timeline visual

For English Language Learners: Provide vocabulary cards with pictures, allow use of translation tools

For advanced learners: Complete the extension activity below

🌟 Extension Activity (Advanced Learners):