Author Description

This guide, for grades 6 and above, helps students experience culture and cultural diversity through projects and discussion and reflection activities as an alternative to reading. Students become aware of individual cultural identities including their strengths and weaknesses. Students develop the skills necessary to think critically about culture and to resolve cultural disagreements without resorting to insults or violence. The guide helps students see cultural groups different from their own as a learning opportunity. The guide is divided into five chapters: (1) "Some Definitions"; (2) "Culture, Identity, and You"; (3) "Critical Thinking"; (4) "Conflict Resolution"; and (5) "Putting It All Together." Each chapter offers in-depth explanations of elements to be taught. The discussion and reflection sections suggest ways to share the information with students. In addition, the student project sections address students directly. The projects are designed to lead students to incorporate what they have learned and to help them realize the choices they can make about cultural diversity. Contains 30 references.(BT)