My First Obutsudan

This is the first grade version. There is a more extensive version in 3rd grade which is a 5 week (at least) project.

Grade Level: 1,2

Objective

After this lesson, the student will be able to repeat steps for Gassho, Oshoko and Nembutsu (even imperfectly)

Materials

• My Obutsudan Cut Outs (below)

• Scissors

• Crayons/Markers

• Glue

• Blank cardboard/thick paper

Preparation

Make copies of the "My Obutsudan" and "Cut Out" pages.

For early First Graders, cut out the "Cut Out" pages. Color in the Amida Buddha cut-out and/or other pieces and place similar pieces together.

Method

1. Opening Gassho

2. Practice Oshoko by a student

   1. If this is the first time, then show the steps and guide the student

3. Recitation of the Nembutsu

   1. If this is the first time, say "Namo Amida Butsu" means that "I put my faith in Amida Buddha"

4. Review that day’s Dharma Talk in age appropriate terms

5. Short description of the Obutsudan and the parts

   1. Have students repeat what the part is while randomly raising

6. Each student glues the parts of the My Obutsudan.

   1. For older grades, the student colors, cuts and glues the obutsudan pieces onto the thick paper.

   2. Place each part in front of the student one part at a time and explain what each piece means

   3. Have each student write their name on top

   4. Have student write the following at the bottom

My Obutsudan

1. AMIDA BUDDHA

2. I offer rice to say "thank you."

3. I burn incense and say "thank you."

4. I offer beautiful flowers and say "thank you."

5. I light the candle and say "thank you."

7. Read what they wrote together with the students

8. Clean Up

9. Review parts of the Obutsudan

10. Closing Gassho

Evaluation

During the Review first ask the class what each part is. If they pause (even a few seconds), say what it is.

Note

To accommodate for special student needs, you can print the words on a piece of paper and have the student glue that in the cardboard.

Author

BCA Education Committee, 1987