Cultural and Cross-cultural literacy

 It is a term coined by E.D. Hirsch, referring to the ability to understand and

participate fluently in a given culture.
 A culturally literate person knows a given culture’s signs and symbols, including
its language, particular dialectic, stories, entertainment, and so on.
 According to Flavell, Thackrah & Hoffman, 2013, cultural literacy also helps you
develop associated skills, such as communication and self-reflection.

Spain

- Spain is located on the south-western shore of Europe just north of Africa, and it
is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean on the western side and the Mediterranean
on the southern side. France and the Pyrenees mountains are northeast of
Spain, while Portugal takes up a portion of the western edge of the country.
- Spain is a complex cultural mix. Although many consider themselves Spanish,
many also consider themselves a Catalan, Basque or Galician first.

LANGUAGE IN SPAIN

The official language in Spain is Spanish or Castilian Spanish.

At least 90% of the population speak Castilian Spanish as a first or second language.
About 17% of the population speak Catalan, 7% speak Galician and 2% speak Basque.

RELIGION AND BELIEF

Spain is a predominantly Roman Catholic country with approximately 94% of the
population affiliated to that religion.
During Holy Week, processions take place when participants wear a capirote which is a
pointed hat of conical form and is part of the uniform of some brotherhoods and
fraternities. They walk barefoot and carry a burden which is symbolic of a penitent.

THE family

Traditionally, the family has been the basis of the social structure, including the nuclear
and the extended family, which provide both social and financial support.

FOOD

It is not surprising that many dishes feature seafood.

The Spanish are particularly famed for their Paella. The dish is rice based and includes
a mixture of vegetable, meat and fish. It is seasoned with saffron and various spices.

Another favorite is the Tapas, Tortilla Espanola, Pincho.

Arts, Humanities & Popular Culture

Antoni Gaudi (1852 – 1926) made his mark on Spain, particularly in and around
Barcelona with his creative contribution to architecture. His style was distinctive and
eclectic and included the famous Basilica La Sagrada Familia.

Spain has produced many famous artists: Picasso, Dali, Goya, Velázquez, el Greco – to
name but a few.

Flamenco guitar that accompanies another traditional and popular art form, the
Flamenco dance.

Name

A Spanish name is made up of two first names and two surnames, composed of their
father’s first surname and their mother’s first surname. Use Señor (Sr.) or Señora (Sra.)

Women do not change their name when they marry.

Gift Giving

When invited to a home for dinner it is customary to give the host or hostess a gift: a
good bottle of wine, flowers, chocolates and/or a dessert. It is especially good to ensure
the gift is beautifully wrapped.

It is not advisable to give chrysanthemums, white lilies or red roses and flowers should
be in odd numbers except for 13 which is seen as an unlucky number.

If receiving a gift it should be opened immediately in the presence of the giver.

Dining & Food

Remain standing until invited to sit down. You may be shown to a particular seat.

Always keep your hands visible when eating. Keep your wrists resting on the edge of
the table.

Do not begin eating until the hostess starts.

Use utensils to eat most food. Even fruit is eaten with a knife and fork.

If you have not finished eating, cross your knife and fork on your plate with the fork over
the knife.

Indicate you have finished eating by laying your knife and fork parallel on your plate,
tines facing up, with the handles facing to the right.

 DO’S AND DONTS

Do shake hands with everyone, start with the oldest first. Expect a kiss on each cheek,
a hug or a pat on the back from those you know.

Do dress stylishly with nice accessories.

Do be prepared for late lunch and dinner. Remember that dinner is around 9 PM and
some restaurants won’t get hopping until 11!
Do tip a little if you want. Tipping is not customary in Spain though.

Do rest your wrists at the edge of the table when eating.

Do give gifts and if receiving a gift open it immediately.

Do be patient. The Spanish have a very relaxed view of time.

DON’TS

Do not complain about smoking. Spaniards often say that people who complain about
such things are “afraid of life”. Smoking is widely accepted in Spain.

Do not get involved with any drugs. The penalties for the possession of any kind of
drugs are severe in Spain.

Do not wear shorts in public, except to the beach.

Do not eat with your hands.

Do not watch the street entertainers for too long as the pickpockets likely to make you
there victim.

United Kingdom
Location: Western Europe

Nationality: English, Irish, Scottish or Welsh (or just British which covers all of them)

The United Kingdom includes England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Historically the country was a forerunner in the developing world and, at its peak during
the 19th Century, had an empire that stretched across the globe.

LANGUAGE IN THE UNITED KINGDOM

English is the main language spoken by approximately 98% of the population in the UK
with numerous dialects.

Religion & Beliefs

The official state-sanctioned religion in the UK is the Church of England which is of the
Christian Protestant faith.

It is estimated that a third of the population have no religious connection. Thirty percent
of the UK population affiliates to the official Church of England while ten percent identify
with the Roman Catholic religion.

Whilst Christianity is the dominant religion in the UK, minority religions include Islam,
Hinduism, Sikhism, Judaism and Buddhism.

The Family

Until the middle of the 20th Century, marriage was the standard for British families
which comprised two parents with the father as the head of the household. However, in
the last few decades, there has been a rise in single parent families and many more
couples are choosing to co-habit rather than to marry. Half a century ago, living together
would have been socially unacceptable and was known as ‘living in sin’.

Divorce at one time was also unthinkable but in the last few decades it has become
more acceptable.

Marriage too is changing with same sex couples now permitted to marry in law or enter
into Civil Partnerships.

Naming conventions
In the UK, the first name is also known as ‘the Christian name’, although this has little to
do with religion today.

In modern times, children are often given names that are liked by the parents and which
have no particular significance regarding family or religion. Some children are named
after famous football stars, singers or film actors.

Meeting & Greeting

British are in fact friendly people and welcoming to foreign visitors.

The etiquette when greeting is to shake hands with all those present, even children.

At social or business meetings, it is polite to also shake hands upon leaving. Hand-
shakes should not be too hearty, just a light friendly touch.

Last names should be used with the appropriate title unless specifically invited to use
the first name.

Dining & Food

Table manners are Continental, i.e. the fork is held in the left hand and the knife in the
right while eating.

Remain standing until invited to sit down. You may be shown to a particular seat.

Do not rest your elbows on the table.

If invited to a meal at a restaurant, the person extending the invitation usually pays. It is
important to arrive on time.

Do not wave your hand or call out to summons a waiter if in a restaurant.

Do’s and Don’ts

Do take your hat off when you go indoors (men only). It is impolite for men to wear hats
indoors especially in churches.

Do say "Excuse Me“. If someone is blocking your way and you would like them to move,
say excuse me and they will move out of your way.

Do say "Please" and "Thank you“. It is very good manners to say "please" and "thank
you". It is considered rude if you don't.

Do cover your Mouth

Do Shake Hands

Do say sorry

Do Smile

Do Drive on the left side of the road

Do open doors for other people

Don’ts

Do not greet people with a kiss: We only kiss people who are close friends and
relatives.

Do not ask a lady her age

Do not pick your nose in public:

We are disgusted by this. If your nostrils need de-bugging, use a handkerchief.

Avoid doing gestures such as backslapping and hugging.

Do not spit.

Do not burp in public.

It is impolite speak with your mouth full of food.

Do not ask personal or intimate questions.

Things you need to know about the British people:

The British are punctual. Being late is odd and, in some cases, considered to be rude.

Never jump lines, known as “queues” in UK. In some countries jumping the queue may
be acceptable, but in UK, people may not be very happy with you and will definitely let
you know how unhappy they are about the situation.

In the UK, it’s acceptable to keep one arm’s length between yourself and those you are
speaking with.

The British have a high amount of respect for older adults and the disabled.

British people often avoid extended eye contact. They find it uncomfortable and
intimidating.

If you are invited to the home of a native British person, it is normal to bring along a gift,
such as chocolate, wine, or flowers to say thank you.

The person who has invited you to dinner is typically the one who pays.

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Location: North America, bordering both the North Atlantic Ocean and the North Pacific
Ocean, between Canada and Mexico

Capital: Washington, DC

National anthem: The Star-Spangled Banner

Nationality: American

LANGUAGE IN AMERICA
There is no official language in the USA although English (specifically American
English) is the primary language used for legislation, regulations, executive orders,
treaties, federal court rulings, and all other official pronouncements.

Due to the large number of immigrants that make up the population, America is very
much a multilingual nation.

Per the American Community Survey 2011, endorsed by the United States Census
Bureau, the top 5 spoken languages in America are:

English – 230 million

Spanish – 37.58 million

Chinese – 2.88 million

French – 2.05 million

Tagalog – 1.59 million

Religion & Beliefs

The vast majority of people in the USA are Christian – around 70-78%.

Judaism is the largest non-Christian faith (around 1.6%) , followed by Islam (0.5%) as
well as all other major faiths such as Buddhism, Sikhism, etc.

Around 15% of Americans consider themselves atheists.

The Family

The family unit is generally considered the nuclear family, and is typically small (with
exceptions among certain ethnic groups).

Extended family relatives live in their own homes, often at great distances from their
children.

Food

Americans as a nation eat a lot of food.

They consume large amounts of processed and fast foods such as hamburgers, hot
dogs, subs, etc.

Naming conventions

Family, friends and colleagues use first names.

Nicknames are also common.

In formal situations you would use your name & surname or that of the person you are
introducing, for example, “Please meet Jane Doe.” Mr. or Mrs. may also be used in
more conservative states.

Within work situations use professional titles when addressing others, i.e. “Nice to meet
you Professor Lacey.”

Do not use professional titles when introducing yourself.

Meeting & Greeting

American greetings are generally quite informal and casual.

It is becoming more common in social situations not to shake hands upon meeting and
simply smile or nod.

Rather than say “bye” Americans may also use terms such as “call me some time,” “let’s
do lunch” or “see you around” as politer ways of departing.

Gift Giving

Americans do not really have any customs or taboos concerning gifts.

Gifts within business are generally discouraged due to anti-bribery policies.

Dining & Food

Americans socialize and do business over breakfast, lunch and dinner.

If you invite someone to a restaurant, you should pay.

Napkins if provided are placed on the lap.

Many foods are eaten by hand.

Food is often served family-style, which means that it is in large serving dishes and
passed around the table for everyone to serve themselves.

Do not rest your elbows on the table.

Do’s and Don’ts

Do

Do say “Hi” or “Hello” when first meet, it’s not necessary for handshake.

Do make a tight grip when shaking hands, and have eye contact. Americans consider it
as rude and arrogant when shaking hands without looking at each.

Do avoid number ‘13’, ‘3’, ‘Friday’ and use the bat for the design of goods, and
packaging materials, as they are associated with the bad luck.

Do say hello to strangers. Turn your eyes away or pretend not see others is considered
disdaining others.

Do wait in front of the restaurant door for the waiter to lead you to the table.

Don’ts

Do not call black people “Negro”.

Do not casually take off your shoes or bare feet in front of others, which give people the
impression of barbaric debauchery.

Do not pull garters or socks in front of others, which are considered impolite.

Do not smoke in front of the others without consent.

Do not be gaudy or do make up in public, which is thought to be bad nurture.

Do not hitch. Hitchhiking and being snatched money are common in the United States.

Do not forget to greet children. Americans treat children equal to adults.

South Korea

South Korea, an East Asian nation on the southern half of the Korean Peninsula, shares
one of the most heavily militarized borders with North Korea.

LANGUAGE IN SOUTH KOREA

Koreans share one language, with approximately seventy million people around the
globe speaking Korean.

Dialects are regional; differing mainly in accent, but are so similar that comprehension
for speakers, or listeners, is not an issue. Key difference in dialect are also attributed to
social status.

Religion & Beliefs

South Korea supports religious freedom

Confucianism, Buddhism and Christianity are the main formal religions.

Many Koreans believe in the ancestral spirit and observe Confucian rituals.

Confucianism is a political and social philosophy that pervades Korean culture.

The Family

The family unit is an integral part of customs and life in South Korea.

Arranged marriages are common.

Divorce was rare but has become more common in recent years.
The eldest son bears extra responsibility to his family and it is supposed that he will
care for his parents in their old age.

Food

Korean cuisine is based on rice, vegetables and meat

Kimchi ’ is the national dish and is eaten with most meals.

Banchan are side dishes – these are often made in large numbers and are served along
with the main dish.

Food is used in ceremonies, especially at weddings, birthdays and to honor ancestors.

Naming Conventions

In South Korea names operate in the reverse of Western cultures; Family name
(surname), a second family name shared by all of that generation, and finally their given
name.

It is considered very impolite to address a Korean with his or her given name. They
should be addressed using their professional titles, or Mr, Mrs, etc., until permission is
given otherwise.

Gift Giving Etiquette

Accept the gift with both hands – but never open the gift immediately, wait until the giver
is absent.

Return the favor and offer something of a similar value. Koreans enjoy Western gifts
and items so be prepared before leaving home.

If giving gifts be sure to wrap and present them in an attractive way. Avoid using dark
wrapping paper, especially red, instead choose bright yellow/green.
Do not give overly expensive gifts as Koreans feel indebted to give as they receive.

Avoid gifts such as knives, scissors, sets of four, and red writing (these are seen as
‘cutting ties’ and signifying death respectively).

Dining & Food

Always wait to be seated by your host.

Elders are served first and begin the dining process.

Don’t forget to pass and receive food with two hands or with just your right if it is
supported by your left

When it comes to settling the bill, the invitee may offer to pay but the host will generally
pay for everyone.

If you are invited to continue after dinner with drinks or a party, don’t refuse this
invitation.

Visiting a home

Remember, never pour your own drink. The host will do this in your presence.

Being invited into a Korean’s home is considered an honor (especially if it is for a meal)
so it is essential to treat it as such. Be polite, respectful and observe their customs.

Bring a gift to reciprocate your host’s kindness.

Once the party is over you will usually be escorted to your car or the gate by the host.
This is a sign of respect.

Taboos in South Korean Culture

Do not wear your shoes in places of worship or peoples’ homes.

Do not eat or drink in public places while walking.

Do not use red ink. This is a symbol of death and is reserved only for writing the names
of the deceased.

Do not use the number four if at all possible – if giving gifts, do not give four of
something. It is considered unlucky due to the similarity between the Korean word for
death and the pronunciation of the word ‘four’.

Do not stand too close to people you are meeting for the first time – keep an arm’s
length between you.

China

China is an extremely large country — first in population and fifth in area, according to
the CIA — and the customs and traditions of its people vary by geography and ethnicity.

Religion

The Chinese Communist Party that rules the nation is officially atheist, though it is
gradually becoming more tolerant of religions, according to the Council on Foreign
Relations.

Currently, there are only five official religions. Any religion other than Buddhism,
Taoism, Islam, Catholicism and Protestantism are illegal, even though the Chinese
constitution states that people are allowed freedom of religion.

Language

There are seven major groups of dialects of the Chinese language, which each have
their own variations, according to Mount Holyoke College.
Mandarin dialects are spoken by 71.5 percent of the population, followed by Wu (8.5
percent), Yue (also called Cantonese; 5 percent), Xiang (4.8 percent), Min (4.1 percent),
Hakka (3.7 percent) and Gan (2.4 percent).

The official national language of China is Pŭtōnghuà, a type of Mandarin spoken in the
capital Beijing, according to the Order of the President of the People's Republic of
China. Many Chinese are also fluent in English.

Chinese Etiquette

1. Greeting People

Contrarily to what many foreigners think, you are not supposed to bow when greeting
Chinese people. Shaking hands, smiling, and saying “hi” or “ni hao” is the most usual
way to greet people in China or Taiwan. Use “nin hao” to greet older Chinese people.

2. Visiting a Chinese Home

Make sure you arrive on time.

Take off your shoes before entering your guest’s home.

Wear the slippers they offer you even if they are too small.

Offer a small gift to your host.

Receive objects (gifts, drinks, napkins) with both hands.

Compliment about something you like in the house.

3. Chopsticks

Don’t plant your chopsticks in your rice so that they stand up. Chinese people think it
looks like incense stuck in the ash of a censer. When you are not using them, or have to
drink, or talk, you can leave them flat on the table. When you’re finished eating, place
them flat on your bowl.

4. Public-Use Chopsticks

Sometimes, an extra pair of chopsticks will be placed in the middle of the table. These
chopsticks are called “gong kuai” or “public-use chopsticks”. You use them (for hygienic
purpose) to take food from serving trays, and you place them back in the middle after
using them.

5. Chinese Gifts

Gifts are given when visiting someone’s home, on major Chinese holidays like Chinese
New Year, at weddings and for birthdays.

Here are some points to remember about this important Chinese etiquette:

Always present your gift with both hands.

Fresh fruit are always appreciated, especially if they are in a nice box or basket.

Do not give the following objects: clocks, handkerchiefs, and sharp objects like scissors
or knives.

Accept the gift only after the person has insisted a couple of times.
Always receive gifts with both hands.

Don’t open your gift in front of the person who gave it to you.

6. Red Envelopes

On special occasions like Chinese New Year and weddings, Chinese people give red
envelopes filled with money instead of giving gifts. Chinese red envelopes are called
“hong bao” in Mandarin Chinese.

7. Don’t write people’s name in red.

Even though red is a lucky color in Chinese society, you’re not supposed to write
people’s name using that color. Why not? Because traditionally, the name of the
deceased were painted in red on their gravestones.