Exploring Cultural Differences- Activity 2

Introduce Activity 2 by sharing a humorous or embarrassing anecdote about cultural misunderstanding or difference. This lowers inhibitions, sparks ideas and gets students interested (I like to tell the story of how, after eating a meal- with my fingers- in a rural Nepalese village, I mistakenly washed my hands in the bowl of drinking water)

Then, in small groups, students brainstorm and discuss differences between other cultures and their own that they have experienced or heard about.

Briefly share and discuss some of these stories, if the classroom mood inspires.

Then, have groups discuss whether or not culture plays a role in any of the following categories (and, if so, how?):

food, friends, family, politics, etiquette, education, art, health, work, fun

Facilitate a whole-class discussion exploring how culture influences many of the categories.

Put students in new small groups. Have them create a dialogue/skit/ role-play involving the clash of cultural differences. Encourage creativity, silliness, props, drama and fun. Have a few willing groups perform their skits for the class.

Assign homework for students' second Blog post:

1) What has been the hardest/ most shocking cultural difference you have experienced since coming to the US?
2) What cultural difference might be the hardest/ most shocking for a foreigner visiting your country?
3) Respond to a classmate's blog post.