Throughout the year we've been learning about culture. "The student whose first language is not English needs a supportive environment and also needs to feel comfortable sharing with his or her classmates" (Avery, 2005). Our class has benefited this year from our different cultures. Our lessons have been infused with literature, music, food, and other topics from each culture represented by our students (and others). We've enjoyed having friends and family members participate with lectures about their heritage and ethnicity. Family history and traditions were stressed and in some cases, demonstrated. I've attached a few pictures from these lessons. I cannot thank each of them enough. Their participation has been thoroughly enjoyable for me and my students.
Merriam Webster defines culture as
"* the beliefs, customs, arts, etc., of a particular society, group, place, or time
* a particular society that has its own beliefs, ways of life, art, etc.
*a way of thinking, behaving, or working that exists in a place or organization (such as a business)"
Each student was given a copy of National Geographic magazine; and was instructed to select a culture that was not their own. They had to read about the culture they selected and comprise a list of all of the similarities and then differences between that culture and their own. Most were surprised to learn that unless they were of Native American heritage, at some point their families were immigrants to this country. Their reactions were priceless! Please contact me if you would like to volunteer. This is an ongoing topic throughout our school year.
Avery, N. (2005). Our multicultural classroom. Teaching Pre K - 8, 36(2), 52-53. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/231919063?accountid=12085
culture. 2014. In Merriam-Webster.com.Retrieved December 12, 2014, from http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/culture
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