ERIC Number: ED375185
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 1994
Pages: 105
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: ISBN-0-8251-2488-3
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Comparing Cultures. A Cooperative Approach to a Multicultural World. Walch Reproducibles Grades 5 to 8.
Pickering, John W.
This user's guide provides an overview of an approach to learning about different cultures that is based on an understanding of young adolescent development. It highlights three teaching methods that are considered of particular importance to the educational process: (1) the integration of materials in social studies and language arts classes; (2) the development of cooperative-learning groups; and (3) the utilization of student and teacher resources and interests. The bulk of the report concerns specific educational activities and learning exercises divided into two main groups: "Learning About World Cultures" and "Creating a New Culture." The goals of "Learning About World Cultures" are to compare and contrast three to five widely diverse cultures and identify factors influencing cultural development. Students begin by studying their own cultures and then study two to four specific families from different geographic locations and historical periods. Students also learn certain social science concepts needed in comparing and contrasting the various cultures. The goal of "Creating a New Culture" is to have students gain firsthand experience in creating a culture and to increase their ability to work cooperatively with other students using small-group interaction. Detailed information about how to structure the cooperative-learning groups, how to evaluate students' work, and where to read more about collaborative learning is provided. (GLR)
Descriptors: Adolescents, Cooperative Learning, Cultural Awareness, Cultural Differences, Cultural Education, Cultural Pluralism, Curriculum Development, Educational Methods, Elementary Education, Foreign Countries, Grade 5, Grade 6, Grade 7, Grade 8, Grouping (Instructional Purposes), Learning Activities, Learning Strategies, Lesson Plans, Program Descriptions, Teaching Methods
J. Weston Walch, Publisher, P.O. Box 658, Portland, ME 04104-0658 (Order No. 00-24883, $15.95).
Publication Type: Books; Guides - Classroom - Teacher
Education Level: N/A
Audience: Teachers; Practitioners
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A