Count Your Way Through Iran
#22 in Haskins Society Journal Series
What’s inside...
This volume of the Haskins Society Journal presents a collection of essays that explore various historical and interdisciplinary topics related to the early and central Middle Ages in the Anglo-Saxon, Anglo-Norman, and Angevin regions. The essays cover a wide range of subjects including legal influences, judicial processes, ecclesiology, comital authority, and conceptions of servitude. The volume also includes art historical contributions and an archeological exploration of early medieval Britain. Additionally, it features an edition and translation of the De Abbatibus of Mont Saint-Michel, providing a comprehensive view of this Norman monastery's medieval history.
Discussion points
Why do you think it’s important to learn about different cultures like Iran’s through numbers?
How do numbers help us understand more about daily life in Iran?
Can you think of a number that is special to you? Why is it special?
What was the most surprising thing you learned about Iran from this book?
How might life in Iran be similar or different to ours?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the numbers in the book to their own life by comparing aspects like family size or types of food mentioned.
Use the book as a starting point to explore more about Iranian culture, such as traditional music, clothing, or holidays.
Help your child engage with the material by asking them to draw or write about what a day in their life would look like if they lived in Iran.
After discussing each number, practice counting together using objects around your home to make the connection between the abstract numbers and their tangible uses.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Cultural appreciation
Explanation: Through counting various elements of Iranian culture, from numbers to foods and historical sites, the book showcases the richness of Iranian heritage.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect diverse cultures, encouraging them to be open-minded and curious about the world beyond their immediate surroundings.
Example Lesson: Basic numeracy skills
Explanation: The book integrates numbers into the narrative by having the reader count various cultural elements, providing a fun and engaging way to learn basic math.
Real-World Application: This can help children apply counting skills in daily activities, such as counting objects, understanding quantities, and simple addition.
Example Lesson: Historical knowledge
Explanation: By featuring historical landmarks and figures, the book provides educational insight about Iran’s history, enhancing children's global historical awareness.
Real-World Application: This lesson can foster a child's interest in history and inspire them to learn about historical events and figures from other countries as well.
Example Lesson: Understanding symbolism
Explanation: The book discusses symbols significant in Iranian culture, teaching children how symbols can represent broader concepts and shared communal values.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to identify symbols in their own culture and understand their meanings, which helps in grasping abstract concepts.
Example Lesson: Learning a new language
Explanation: Introducing Persian numbers and words, the book offers children an opportunity to learn basics of a new language.
Real-World Application: This can spark an interest in foreign languages which might lead to better linguistic skills and a deeper understanding of other cultures.