Ficus religiosa

High school (ages 12+)
Environment & Earth

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/ficus-religiosa

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the scientific name?Ficus religiosa
2. What is the habitat?Indian subcontinent and Indochina; thrives in tropical and subtropical climates
3. What is the Bodhi tree and why is it special?The Bodhi tree is a type of fig called Ficus religiosa. It has heart‑shaped leaves and can live for more than 2,000 years, making it very old and strong.
4. Why do Buddhists think the Bodhi tree is important?Buddhists say that Buddha became enlightened under a Bodhi tree at Bodh Gaya. Because of this, the tree is a symbol of awakening and peace.

Ascetics: Individuals who practice extreme self-discipline and self-denial, often for religious or spiritual reasons.
Autotroph: An organism, like a plant, that synthesizes its own food from inorganic substances, typically using sunlight.
Enlightenment: A state of profound spiritual insight, understanding, and liberation, particularly associated with Buddhism.
Indochina: A geopolitical region in Southeast Asia comprising the mainland territories of Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam.