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Celebrating Cultures: Holiday Traditions

Lesson Plan

Celebrating Cultures: Holiday Traditions

Compare holiday traditions

In this lesson, students will explore and compare holiday traditions from various cultures, focusing on themes of family and community. Through discussion and a collaborative project, students will gain a deeper understanding of cultural diversity and the importance of family and community in holiday celebrations. This lesson will help students appreciate different cultural practices and foster a sense of inclusivity and respect.

Audience

Contenders (Ages 11-12)

Time

1 hour 30 mins

Approach

Compare holiday traditions

Materials

Post-it notes, Markers, Large poster board, Craft supplies, Discussion Questions, Worksheet: Holiday Traditions Comparison, and Printable Cards: Holiday Symbols

Step 1

Introduction

10 mins

  • Begin with a brief introduction to the concept of holiday traditions and their significance in different cultures.
  • Ask students to share any holiday traditions they celebrate with their families.

Step 2

Discussion on Family and Community

20 mins

  • Use the discussion questions to guide a conversation about the role of family and community in holiday celebrations.
  • Encourage students to think about how these themes are present in their own traditions.

Step 3

Worksheet Activity

20 mins

  • Distribute the 'Holiday Traditions Comparison' worksheet.
  • Have students work individually or in pairs to complete the worksheet, comparing different cultural traditions.

Step 4

Collaborative Project

30 mins

  • Divide students into small groups and provide them with craft supplies.
  • Each group will create a section of a multicultural holiday display, representing different traditions.
  • Encourage creativity and collaboration as they work on their projects.

Step 5

Closure

10 mins

  • Have each group present their section of the display to the class.
  • Conclude with a reflection on what they learned about cultural diversity and the importance of family and community in holiday traditions.
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Discussion

Discussion Questions: Holiday Traditions

This discussion will help students explore the themes of family and community in holiday traditions from various cultures.

What are some holiday traditions you celebrate with your family?

Encourage students to share personal experiences and highlight common themes.







How do different cultures celebrate holidays?

Discuss various cultural practices and their significance.







Why is family important in holiday celebrations?

Explore the role of family in creating meaningful holiday experiences.







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Worksheet

Worksheet: Holiday Traditions Comparison

This worksheet will guide students in comparing and contrasting holiday traditions from different cultures.

List three holiday traditions from different cultures and describe them.

Think about the customs, foods, and activities involved.







What similarities do you notice between these traditions?

Consider themes like family, community, and celebration.







How do these traditions reflect the values of their respective cultures?

Reflect on the cultural significance and meaning behind the traditions.







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Worksheet

Printable Cards: Holiday Symbols

These cards feature symbols from various holiday traditions and can be used in the collaborative project.




Christmas Tree







Menorah







Diwali Lamp







Kwanzaa Kinara







Eid Crescent Moon







Hanukkah Dreidel




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lenny