Lesson “Cultural Identity and Values,” What is Culture?

RATIONALE
This lesson gives students an opportunity to examine the complex concept of culture and to
understand that while all people have a culture, for some it may mean the country or region of
their ancestors, and for others it may encompass areas including family, religion and
community. Students learn that no matter how it is defined, culture gives people a sense of
who they are. Before students examine their own cultural backgrounds, they will develop a
working definition of culture.
OBJECTIVES
• Students will examine the complexity of culture.
• Students will develop a working definition of culture.
Preparation:
• Reproduce handouts as directed above.
• Create a chart with the following three columns:

Elements of Culture, Cultural Groups and Importance of Culture.

1. On a sheet of chart paper, create a chart with the following three columns: “Elements of Culture,”
“Cultural Groups” and “Importance of Culture.” Begin the lesson by having students brainstorm a list of
words and phrases that come to mind when they hear the word “culture.” List these responses in the
first column under “Elements of Culture.”
2. Next ask students to identify the cultural groups that exist in their university community, and write
these responses in the second column.
3. Complete the chart by asking students to brainstorm the importance of culture, and listing their
responses in the third column.
EXAMPLE:

ELEMENTS OF CULTURE CULTURAL GROUPS IMPORTANCE OF CULTURE

FOOD Mexican American shared history
CUSTOMS Southerner traditions and celebrations
LANGUAGE Muslim sense of belonging

FOR PRESENTATION
WHO AM I?
1. Culturally, how would you describe _____________?
2. What are some of the ways that you might identify yourself culturally?
3. Is it possible that at different times in your ’s life you might identify more strongly with
one aspect of your cultural identity than another? Explain.
4. What are some of the obstacles that you might face because of your cultural identity?
5. What are other examples of things people do that might make them feel disloyal to
their cultural group?