Objective: To help you compare cultural customs
Procedures:
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1. Read the information that precedes this plan as directed by the teacher. Attend a scheduled Open Forum discussion (see discussion guide)
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2. In a general forum, answer questions from the discussion guide as directed by the teacher. Allow yourself some time to formulate and assess your responses before raising your hand.
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3. Locate the Hand out for Activity B (chart for comparing and contrasting)
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4. Divide yourselves into groups by related culture. One group may be made up of "others"
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5. Allow forty- five minutes to complete the first two categories on the chart (activity B.) Record info in your lit log. Request additional time if needed.
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6. Choose one idea to share with your class when you return to the large group.
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7. Make notes in your lit log about factors that are common to other groups as they share their ideas.
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8. Return to your small groups and complete the chart. Allow sixty minutes for shared notes, discussions and completion of the chart.
Open Forum Discussion guide
1. What are some of the social issues that were presented in the story?
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a. Does the main character show signs of adapting to the new culture by imitating others? by trial and error?
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b. Does any character show signs of being judgmental about another person's cultural ways?
2. What aspects of culture are discussed?
3. Is the ethnic group who's represented in the story considered a minority group in this country?
4. What makes the group a minority?
5. How does the label of minority affect the group in terms of housing, financial success, health care, daily diet, etc.?
6. Respond to the following: What is acceptable in your culture may be offensive to someone from another culture. Can you think of a time when this has been the case with you?
7. Role play this situation: You and your friend are at a restaurant which serves ethnic foods. One of you can't eat this kind of food for religious reasons or specific holiday custom. What are some positive ways to handle this without offending ?
Activity B
Compare and contrast customs of your individual culture to that of the ethnic group featured in the story.
Directions In your lit log, create a chart labeled, "Similarities Differences, Factors" On it, note what in your cultures is " similar," what is "different," and what factors influence certain practices and beliefs in both cultures.
** Sample Chart for comparing (name the two cultures) KEY: A= your ethnic heritage; B= Other culture __________________________________________________|
Similarities Differences Factors
Food A
B
Language
Others
___________________________________________________|
Celebrating America
America's early history enjoyed an influx of immigrants who came here to escape religious persecution, to escape human rights abuses and to find a better way of life. With the exception of Africans, who were forcibly brought here, immigrants came of their own free will and were welcome to the shores of America.
The United States is somewhat unique in having the world's largest diverse population. While that diversity may create some discrimination among ethnic groups as everyone competes for the country's wealth, this country has enjoyed many of the positive sides of that diversity.
Take a look at popular culture and art to see some of the fruits of America's diversity. Television and movies help to show many ethnic news personalities, athletes, actors and actresses. Writers of different ethnic backgrounds are now being read in schools. Scholars are recognized in collegiate circles. Ethnic representation has finally even reached the institution of government.
There is much work to be done, however strides have been made toward appreciation of those who have helped to make America. The struggle continues.
