Angelo J. Pompano
This multi-disciplinary unit uses lessons in English, Home Economics, Art, Science, and other disciplines. The intent of the unit is to promote diversity. The unit discusses Arab culture as it relates to Lebanon, a country that is Arab but in which many of the Arabs living there are Christian. That coupled with a strong influence from the Western cultures and socio-economic variation makes Lebanon an interesting country to study. That is precisely why I chose Lebanon for this unit. By seeing the diverse Arab subcultures within the Lebanese culture it is hoped that the students will understand that it is impossible to make generalizations about Arabs just as it is impossible to make generalizations about any group.
While the limited space of the unit allows for only an introduction to the culture of Lebanon, the teacher and the students can delve deeper into those parts of the Lebanese culture that interest them. To facilitate this process, several websites are given throughout the Unit. The unit will cover what the term “Arab” means. It will discuss the Arabic language and teach a few basic Arabic words. However, the main emphasis is on how children in Lebanon are brought up. It discusses home life, school, food, religion, and recreation. At the end of the unit the students will be able to celebrate the diversity between their own culture and that of the Arab culture in Lebanon. By gaining an understanding of this culture it is hoped that the students will learn to transfer their understanding to all races and ethnic groups.