Unit 1

How does CULTURE impact me?

WHERE ARE WE HEADED? 

STANDARDS & 

LEARNING TARGETS

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Language has been adapted to be student friendly. For specific standards from KDE, please click here.

RUBRICS

The scale upon which all 

assessments will be graded.

MASTERY TASK  

Project

The Curated Self

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You will create a project that requires you to apply your learning.

PRACTICE ACTIVITIES:

PROGRESSIVE ASSESSMENTS:

MASTERY ASSESSMENTS:

You will create a:

MUSEUM EXHIBIT

~or~

QUILT

~or~

MURAL

~or~

FAMILY TREE

You will receive a copy of THESE INSTRUCTIONS through Google Classroom when the time comes.


MASTERY TASK 

Writing

Quick Writes

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writing an analytical paragraph

claim

evidence

reasoning 


PRACTICE ACTIVITIES: 

PROGRESSIVE ASSESSMENTS:

MASTERY ASSESSMENT:

MASTERY TASK Discussion

Cultural Expression

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WHO AM I?

If this unit is about how culture impacts the self, then we have to start with the question, who are we?

"Where I'm From"

George Ella Lyon

"Who I Am"

Jessica Andrews

LOCAL CULTURE

Culture is defined as the customs, arts, social institutions, and achievements of a particular nation, people, or other social group. This means that culture goes beyond heritage or nationality, it refers to the collective practices of any group of people. So just as there is Latin American Culture and African Culture, so is there such a thing as American teen culture. 

"Indecision with the phone in hand"

Sarah Orr Aten

Culture: Waggener High School

"May 18, 2021"

Chris Rice

Culture: Waggener High School

AMERICAN CULTURE

"The Hill we climb"

Amanda Gorman

Watch Gorman read her poem at President Biden's inaugeration.

BIOGRAPHY

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Gorman was born in Los Angeles, raised by single mother, a 6th-grade English teacher, with her two siblings. Gorman has said she grew up in an environment with limited television access. She has described her young self as a "weird child" who enjoyed reading and writing and was encouraged by her mother.

Gorman has an auditory processing disorder and is hypersensitive to sound She also had a speech impediment during childhood. Gorman participated in speech therapy during her childhood and her therapist recalled, "Gorman doesn't view her speech impediment as a crutch—rather, she sees it as a gift and a strength. Gorman herself said "I always saw it as a strength because since I was experiencing these obstacles in terms of my auditory and vocal skills, I became really good at reading and writing. When speaking about her speech therapy lessons, Gorman confessed "My favorite thing to practice was the song 'Aaron Burr, Sir,' from Hamilton because it is jam-packed with R's. And I said, 'if I can keep up with this track, then I am on my way to being able to say this R in a poem."

She studied sociology at Harvard College, graduating with honors in 2020. 

~from Wikipedia.com

HOW DID SHE PREPARE?

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The start of 2021 was filled with extraordinary events: a global pandemic, racial equality protests, and an insurrection at the Capitol building in D.C. A difficult time to swear in a new president; a difficult time to write a poem commemorating the occasion.

Gorman was asked to write a poem with the theme, "AMERICA UNITED." She was given the prompt, "write a poem about the history that American stands on and the future that America stands for."

Click HERE to watch an interview with Gorman regarding how she prepared to write and deliver her speech/poem.

“I’m not going to in any way gloss over what we’ve seen over the past few weeks and, dare I say, the past few years. But what I really aspire to do in the poem is to be able to use my words to envision a way in which our country can still come together and can still heal,” she said in an interview with The New York Times. “It’s doing that in a way that is not erasing or neglecting the harsh truths I think America needs to reconcile with.”

LATIN AMERICAN CULTURE

Although each country in Latin America has its own unique culture, 

there are similarities shared through a common ancient ancestry.

Learn more about Latin American Culture by clicking HERE

Latin America is an area rich in cultural and historical events that are diverse and unique. It's a blending of various cultures and histories shaped by multiple influences.


Before the arrival of the Europeans, indigenous tribes like the Maya, Inca, and Aztecs had thriving civilizations in Latin America. They had an impressive knowledge of astronomy, architecture, and agriculture. Their practices and beliefs still continue to impact the societies in Latin America today. The tie to indigenous people is very strongly felt amongst people who live in Latin America today. There is a sense of pride and loyalty to one's heritage that is not often seen in other cultures.


In the 15th and 16th centuries, European powers, especially Spain and Portugal, began to colonize Latin America. They brought their language, religion (mainly Catholicism), and culture to the region. This created a blend of Native American and European cultures that is distinctive to Latin America. For example, although many Latin Americans believe in the Catholic faith, there is still a strong tie to native mythology. Many people still believe in, and practice, magic while others simply embrace folklore and ancient mythology.


In addition to the Spanish bringing European traditions, the African slave trade also had a significant influence on Latin America. Africans were brought to Latin America as slaves, primarily to work on sugar plantations. Despite the hardship, they managed to preserve parts of their culture through music, dance, and food, which continues to leave a deep influence on the culture of the region.


Modern Latin America is a colorful tapestry of these three major influences, woven together with the threads of many other global impacts. Each Latin American country has its particular fusion of indigenous, African, and European influences. These unique combinations have led to a wide variety of customs, cuisines, music styles, and ways of life, making Latin America a beautifully diverse and vibrant part of the world.

The Four Inhabitants of Mexico City

FRIDA KAHLO


The Four Inhabitants of Mexico City (1938)

Self-Portrait on the Border Line Between Mexico and the United States (1932)

ENCANTO

Walt Disney Studios/Lyn Manuel Miranda

LEGAL ALIEN

Pat Mora

You can access this story and your notes through the Formative Activity linked in Google Classroom.

"an American - 

but hyphenated"

September 15th 

thru 

October 15th, 2023

MIDDLE EASTERN CULTURE

POLYNESIAN CULTURE

Murals of Hawaii

Kamea Hadar

MODEL

KAI

At its core, “kai” refers to the ocean. In Hawaiian culture, the ocean is seen as the source of all life, providing nourishment, protection, and inspiration. The Hawaiians have a profound respect for the ocean and its immense power, recognizing it as a symbol of both life and death. “Kai” can also refer to the waves and the seashore. The rhythmic movement of the waves is seen as a metaphor for the ebb and flow of life. It reminds us of the constant change and impermanence of all things. The seashore, with its ever-shifting sands, serves as a reminder of the unfixed nature of existence.


Understanding the different meanings of “kai” in Hawaiian culture allows us to appreciate the profound connection that the Hawaiians have with the ocean. It reminds us of the importance of preserving and respecting our natural environment, as well as the interconnectedness of all life on Earth.

Stuff, Hawaii Star. “The Meaning and Significance of Kai in Hawaiian Culture.” Hawaii Star, 5 Aug. 2023, www.hawaiistar.com/kai-meaning-hawaiian/.

ALOHA

HINA: THE MOON GODDESS

Hina: Ancestral Moon Goddess

Hina is most commonly associated with the moon and is recognized as the opposite of her husband (and brother) Kū. The name Hina is sometimes associated with a downward momentum or fall – the opposite of her husband’s name which meant rising or standing tall. Hina has been associated with the moon and her husband with the rising sun. Other Polynesian translations suggest that Hina means silver-gray and in the Hawaiian language Mahina means moon.


As goddess of the moon, Hina protects travelers at night – a responsibility which gave her the additional name Hina-nui-te-araara (Great Hina the Watchwoman).


She is also the patroness of tapa cloth beaters – a cloth made from tree bark – as she created the first tapa cloth. Invocations were made to Hina before work began and she would watch over the beaters who worked their tapa cloths under the light of the moon.


Hardy, James. “The Hawaiian Gods: Māui and 9 Other Deities.” History Cooperative, 22 Aug. 2023, historycooperative.org/hawaiian-gods/.

Hadar, Kamea. “Kamea Hadar.” KameaHadar.Com, 2023, www.kameahadar.com/.

PELE: THE FIRE GODDESS

Pele: Fire Goddess

Beautiful and volatile – just like the Hawaiian landscape – Pele is the goddess of volcanoes and fire.


It is said that she lives in an active volcano in the Kilauea crater – a sacred place – and that it is her strong, volatile emotions that cause volcanoes to erupt. Pele is deeply rooted in the culture of Hawaii because so much of Hawaii is affected by active volcanos. Hawaiian often tried to appeased Pele with offerings. In 1868 King Kamehameha V threw diamonds, dresses, and precious items into a volcanic crater as offerings to convince Pele to cease the volcanic eruption.


Pele often appears in Hawaiian myths as a beautiful woman. She is remembered as both destroyer and creator of land – one of her pseudonyms, Pelehonuamea, means “She who shapes the sacred land”. The fertile soil provided by active volcanoes, as well as the fiery destruction they can cause, has influenced this view of Pele as dual-natured. Many Hawaiians – especially those living in that shadow of the Kilauea volcano, Pele’s home – still revere her and accept her will as creator and destroyer on the main Hawaiian island.

Hardy, James. “The Hawaiian Gods: Māui and 9 Other Deities.” History Cooperative, 22 Aug. 2023, historycooperative.org/hawaiian-gods/.

Hadar, Kamea. “Kamea Hadar.” KameaHadar.Com, 2023, www.kameahadar.com/.


ALOHA: A SPIRIT OF WELCOME

At 155 feet tall and 60 feet wide, Kamea Hadar’s mural pays homage to the “ambassadors of aloha” – surfing champions Carissa Moore and Duke Kahanamoku, who are each record-setters in their respective generations.

Moore made history in July as the first women’s Olympic surfing champion, when surfing made its debut at the Games. Decades before Moore was born, Olympic swimmer Kahanamoku earned his moniker as the “father of modern surfing,” when he popularized the centuries-old Hawaiian sport around the world. This mural depicts the two Hawaiian icons side by side in Hadar’s signature photo-realistic portraits – a hybrid between fine art and street art styles.

“Hawaii is a special place, and the people here are full of ‘aloha,’ which is that love, that friendliness,” Hadar said. “Carissa and Duke are very much ambassadors of aloha, and they spread that aloha around the world.” He added: “I try to do the same with my art. I think that with positivity and aloha, you can make the world a better place – a happier place.”

“I grew up my whole life in Hawaii … but I’m not native Hawaiian,” Hadar said. “When I touch on a lot of these subjects, I’m talking about ancient Hawaii, I’m talking about Hawaiian culture, using Hawaiian words. Those are all things I’ve learned. I try, very much, to always be sensitive to the native Hawaiian community.” 

“I think great art can come from love and aloha,” Hadar said.

Liang, Sherry. “Hawaiian Artist’s Enormous Murals Are Ambitious in Scale and Message.” CNN, Cable News Network, 25 Nov. 2021, www.cnn.com/style/article/kamea-hadar-mural-art-hawaii-building/index.html.

Hadar, Kamea. “Kamea Hadar.” KameaHadar.Com, 2023, www.kameahadar.com/.

 AFRICAN CULTURE

Traditional African culture is becoming scarce in the face of colonization and civil warfare. 

However, the Maasai tribe is famous for its strength and adherence to traditional ways in the face of adversity.

"Brothers Are the Same"

Beryl Markham

You can access this story and your notes through the Formative Activity linked in Google Classroom.

"Brothers Are the Same" is a story about an adolescent who becomes a warrior. Watch this video to see the Eunoto ceremony when a Maasai warrior graduates to a manhood.

Why do Maasai women create beaded jewelry?

How is the tradition being kept alive in modern times?

Why do the women say working with beads, "is a part of who they are?"

 CHINESE CULTURE

LEARN ABOUT CHINESE CULTURE!

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Chinese culture is one of the oldest and richest cultures in the world, deeply rooted in history, traditions, and societal norms, dating back over 5,000 years. It includes various aspects such as arts, festivals, philosophies, customs, and traditions.


Chinese arts feature calligraphy, painting, literature, and music. Festivals like the Chinese New Year and the Mid-Autumn Festival are integral to their customs, promoting values like family unity and thanksgiving.


Similar to how Christianity influences Mexico's tradition of blowing up Judas figures on Sabido de Gloria (Holy Saturday) and Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), Chinese beliefs such as Taoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism are the key philosophies that have shaped the society's perspective on life and moral conduct.


Think about what you know about these philosophies. What are some examples of moral conduct that might emerge from these beliefs?


Additionally, societal norms emphasize respect, discipline, and social harmony. China's competitive dedication to education and work ethic is envied around the globe. They place great importance on education and schooling. Schools in China often start at 7:30am and dismiss at 5:00pm. Then many students go home to complete three hours of homework on average. Parents expect students to earn good grades as education is viewed as one of the only ways to better your life: more education > better job > more money > higher standing in community > more elite prospects for partners > send children to better schools > and the cycle continues. It is a critical part of Chinese culture for children to obey and honor their elders so not doing well in school is a mark of shame on your family. This strict daily structure and duty-bound attitude continues in adulthood with a dedication to one's job/career.


Describe what you think a typical day for a Chinese teenager looks like.


Chinese cuisine is another aspect that's had a major influence globally. From savory dumplings to aromatic teas, the distinct flavors of Chinese food have permeated the globe, contributing to the world's gastronomic diversity. Some foods are enjoyed by Western palates such as chow mein noodles, while others are less widely appealing, such as the soft meat found in the "cheek" of a fish.


Chinese people value their personal space and pay careful attention to hygiene. They tend to avoid any unnecessary physical contact. Unlike other cultures, where friends are greeting with kisses on the cheeks, the Chinese didn't even shake hands until a few years ago. The traditional Chinese greeting is just a small nod of the head.


Think of how a small child from China might view an American household where lots of hugging happens? Or an American child in China where affection is not shown through physical gestures?


Chinese people will never accept a gift the first time it is offered. It is common for a gift to be offered three times before it is accepted. The reason for this is humility - "I don't deserve such a gift." The same applies to the Chinese attitude towards compliments. Chinese people will never boast about their own accomplishments and if someone else praises them, they will dismiss the compliment. Yet, it is a sign of honor to be able to brag about one's children or family members. There can be intense competition between families when it comes to who makes more money, has a better job, is more talented, etc.


Understanding Chinese culture provides greater insight into the collective mentality and behavior of the Chinese people and appreciates the diversity and complexity of their society.

BONUS: Learn even more by clicking here!


Fish Cheeks

Amy Tan

You can access this story and your notes through the Formative Activity linked in Google Classroom.



Two Kinds

Amy Tan

HUMANITY - A SHARED CULTURE 

Matthew Ashdown and Brad Morris, known globally as “The Gratitudes ” started the Gratitude Dance out of moment of celebration at a coffee shop in Victoria, BC while writing their book on Manifesting Awesomeness. Out of this little jig came the idea to film it and put it on Youtube. Little did they know that it was just the beginning of a journey of understanding the power of gratitude and the power it has had on our lives.

QUILTS - REFLECTIONS OF CULTURE

Quilt Block Patterns 

and what they mean

Quilt Block Patterns

What are the parts of a quilt 

and how are they held together?

Indian Quilts = Ralli

and the three main types of Indian quilting

Hawaiian Quilts

and who needs a quilt in Hawaii?

RUBRICS

English II teachers will use this rubric for every graded assessment (projects, discussion, and writing) in this class. That way, we can see how you improve the more you practice and chart your progress towards your goal! 

Please note that there are three tabs at the bottom according to the type of assignment it is. 

These rubrics will be uploaded to the appropriate Google Classroom assignment as well.


If you have trouble seeing the rubric, click HERE.
Eng II Unit 1 Mastery Rubrics

<<click HERE if you need help completing the artifact log>>

THE ARTIFACTS

click HERE and HERE for a printable copy of the Artifact Log that you will complete for each piece examined in class