Social Studies - World Geography
Educational Links

WG Strand 3: CULTURE

Culture is the total sum of human expression. A culture's purpose, as well as how and where cultures originate, diffuse, and change, are all topics worth studying. Students will explore religion, language, ethnicity and other cultural characteristics by looking at patterns and processes. As students explore what people care about and care for, they can learn not only about other cultures but also about the unique attributes of their own culture.

Possible Guiding Questions to Consider:

• How does culture manifest itself on the landscape of the earth?
• How does culture influence social structures and gender roles?
• What effect does globalization and emerging technologies have on the divergence and convergence of culture?
• How do cultures maintain their identities and traditions?
• How are humans shaped and influenced by their own cultures?
• How can learning about other cultures teach us about our own?

• Amazon Interactive
  Amazon Interactive is a good introduction to the geography of the Amazon and current debates about it. Includes interactive geography activities and a simulation game focusing on ecotourism.
• What Masks Reveal
  In this lesson, students explore the cultural significance of masks by investigating the role they play in ceremonies and on special occasions in societies from widely separated regions of the world. They then reflect on masking behavior in American society, such as at Halloween and in the circus.

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http://www.uen.org - in partnership with Utah State Board of Education (USBE) and Utah System of Higher Education (USHE).  Send questions or comments to USBE Specialist - Robert  Austin and see the Social Studies website. For general questions about Utah's Core Standards contact the Director - Jennifer  Throndsen.

These materials have been produced by and for the teachers of the State of Utah. Copies of these materials may be freely reproduced for teacher and classroom use. When distributing these materials, credit should be given to Utah State Board of Education. These materials may not be published, in whole or part, or in any other format, without the written permission of the Utah State Board of Education, 250 East 500 South, PO Box 144200, Salt Lake City, Utah 84114-4200.