Using Culture Grams

Summary

Students will learn how to use the Culturegrams website, and be able to research information on another country. Students will be asked to compile information regarding the country's size, population, art history, etc.

Materials

Students will need access to a computer and the internet.

Student Prior Knowledge

None required, this activity will encourage them to find out more about a country, of which they have little or no prior knowledge.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Students will essentially find intriguing information about a country they had not previously been informed about. This will encourage them to look at the world from a global perspective. They will also practice effective research and information gathering, as well as their writing skills.

Instructional Procedures

Step 1- Instructor will introduce this lesson by playing a selection of music from a foreign musician, and ask the students if they know who the artist is. This will prompt students to think about the essential question: Why should we examine art, literature, and music from artists outside of the United States? What value does world literature, music and art have for us? Step 2- Demonstrate the Culturegrams website from the Pioneer Library. Walk students through some of the functions and show them where to find recipes, create graphs, and find out about another country. Step 3- Give assignment for students to access Culturegrams through the Pioneer Library. Ask them to submit a written report that includes information in the following categories: politics and government, general population and size, typical cuisine and food, common industries and exports, and arts.