Cultural Diversity Spectrum Diagram

This diagram organizes cultural elements into four interconnected segments along a continuum. As you explore each section, think of real–world examples— traditions, art, social practices, and beliefs—that you know or have experienced.

--- Heritage Practices --- Artistic Expressions --- Social Customs --- Beliefs & Values ---

Use this spectrum to guide your group discussions:

• Identify cultural examples you know for each segment.
  - Notice how these segments overlap and influence one another.
  - Reflect on which part of the spectrum resonates most with your own background.

(Refer back to this diagram during the Visual Exploration phase of the lesson.)

Culture Image Gallery

This gallery features a diverse set of high-resolution images showcasing cultural traditions, art, food, and rituals. Use these images during the Introduction phase to spark curiosity and discussion.

Images:

1. Japanese Tea Ceremony
   Participants in traditional attire perform a tea ceremony in a tatami-lined room. (Heritage Practices)
2. West African Dance Performance
   Colorful costumes and rhythmic movement highlight communal dance. (Artistic Expressions)
3. Indian Diwali Festival
   Homes illuminated with diyas and decorated rangoli patterns. (Social Customs)
4. Mexican Day of the Dead Altar
   Vibrant marigolds, sugar skulls, and family photos arranged on an ofrenda. (Beliefs & Values)
5. Chinese New Year Dragon Dance
   A dynamic dragon costume paraded through crowded streets. (Social Customs & Artistic Expressions)
6. North American Powwow
   Drummers and dancers in regalia celebrate heritage and community. (Heritage Practices & Artistic Expressions)
7. Middle Eastern Traditional Cuisine
   A communal spread of mezze, breads, and kebabs on a low, round table. (Social Customs)
8. Brazilian Carnival Parade
   Samba dancers in elaborate feathered costumes during Rio’s Carnival. (Artistic Expressions & Social Customs)

Display Instructions:

• Project or print each image, one at a time.
• Allow students 1–2 minutes of silent observation per image.
  
  
• Prompt with questions:
  • What cultural symbols, traditions, or values do you notice?
  • Which segment of the Cultural Diversity Spectrum Diagram might this represent?
  • How might this element shape personal or group identity?

Teacher Notes:

• Use this gallery to launch an open, inclusive discussion.
• For ELL or IEP accommodations, display written captions alongside images or provide printed copies.
• Encourage each student to share at least one observation before moving to the next phase.
• Connect observations back to the spectrum segments during the Visual Exploration step.

Culture Reflection Worksheet

Name: _________________________ Date: ________________

Use this worksheet to reflect on the cultural images you observed and the concepts from the Cultural Diversity Spectrum Diagram. Answer each question thoughtfully.

1. Choose one image from the Culture Image Gallery that resonated with you. Describe what you observed—symbols, traditions, or elements that stood out.

1. Which segment of the Cultural Diversity Spectrum Diagram (Heritage Practices, Artistic Expressions, Social Customs, or Beliefs & Values) does this image best represent? Explain your reasoning.

1. Reflect on a cultural tradition or custom from your own background. Identify which spectrum segment it fits into and describe the tradition.

1. How do cultural traditions—whether heritage practices, artistic expressions, social customs, or beliefs & values—influence your personal or group identity? Provide specific examples.

1. After discussing your reflections with a partner, what similarities and differences did you notice in your perspectives? How did this conversation broaden your understanding?

1. What is one concrete step you will take to learn about or engage with a culture different from your own?

 
 
When you finish, be prepared to share one key insight with the class.