Explore World Culture

We are beginning a new unit about different cultures around the world. Culture refers to the customs, beliefs, arts, and institutions of a group of people. Think about what you already know about culture within the United States. What would you like to know about other cultures around the world? Begin by spending some time researching two distinctly different cultures on opposite sides of the world!

Explore Mexico!

http://www.elbalero.gob.mx/index_kids.html

Now, in your social studies notebook answer the following questions about Mexican culture:

1. Describe the customs of the Mexican holiday known as the “Day of the Dead.”

2. What types of games do Mexican children enjoy playing?

3. What part of Mexican culture do you find the most interesting?

Explore Japan!

http://web-japan.org/kidsweb/japan.html

Now, in your social studies notebook answer the following questions about Japanese culture:

1. What is origami? Explain its role in Japanese culture.

2. Describe the traditional dress worn in Japan.

3. What is school like for children in Japan?

Now that you have spent some time researching culture in Mexico and Japan, think about ways these cultures are both similar and different.

In your notebook write two similarities that you have found between these two cultures. Now, write two ways in which these cultures are different. Be prepared to share your responses with your classmates!

Finally, imagine you are taking a trip to one of these countries. What kinds of things might you expect to see when you arrive there? Choose to visit Mexico or Japan. Now, write a brief paragraph describing the culture you find in this country.