cultural anthropology / Lesson Plan

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Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will have a better understanding of cultural anthropology and its importance in studying human societies.

Materials and Prep

  • Notebook or paper
  • Pen or pencil
  • Access to the internet or library resources

No specific prior knowledge is required for this lesson.

Activities

  • Activity 1: Research a Cultural Group

    • Choose a cultural group that interests you and conduct research to learn more about their customs, traditions, and beliefs. Write a short report summarizing your findings.

  • Activity 2: Create a Cultural Artifact

    • Based on your research from Activity 1, create a cultural artifact that represents an aspect of the chosen cultural group. This could be a piece of artwork, a model, or any other creative representation. Reflect on why you chose this particular artifact and what it signifies.

  • Activity 3: Interview a Family Member or Friend

    • Interview a family member or friend who comes from a different cultural background than your own. Ask them about their experiences, traditions, and any challenges they may have faced. Take notes and share your findings with the class or discuss it with a peer.

Talking Points

  • Cultural Anthropology Definition: "Cultural anthropology is the study of human societies and cultures, focusing on their diversity and how they have evolved over time."
  • Why is Cultural Anthropology Important? "Cultural anthropology helps us understand the complexities of different societies, their customs, and how they shape the lives of individuals within those societies. It allows us to appreciate and respect cultural diversity."
  • Methods of Cultural Anthropology: "Cultural anthropologists use various research methods such as participant observation, interviews, and ethnographic studies to gather data about different cultures."
  • Cultural Relativism: "Cultural relativism is the idea that all cultural beliefs and practices should be understood and evaluated within their own cultural context, rather than imposing our own cultural values on them."
  • Impact of Globalization: "Globalization has led to increased cultural exchange and interaction between different societies, which has both positive and negative effects on cultural diversity."