Civics Within The Classroom
GRADE 8
Term: 1 Unit: 2 Unit Title: Unity and Prosperity
Theme: Cultural Identity and Heritage
Topic: What is Culture?
What is culture?
Culture can be defined as all the behaviours, ways of life, arts, beliefs, and institutions of a population that are passed down from generation to generation.
culture has been called "the way of life for an entire society"
"A nation's culture resides in the hearts and in the soul of its people."
-Mahatma Gandhi
Our culture makes us unique Each culture is special
Culture is:
- Learned
- Symbolic
- Shared
- Integrated
- Adoptive
Questions
1) Were you born with a culture or was it given to you?
2) Where do you learn culture?
3) What are some of the things that we share as a culture here in Jamaica?
4) How is the culture here in Jamaica different from the one in China?
5) In your own opinion, what does the following quote by Marcus Garvey mean? "A
people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without
roots."
1. I think we were born in a culture and as we grow, we gradually adopt to it more.
ReplyDelete2. We learn culture through engaging with our surroundings starting at home, church, school and even our communities.
3. As Jamaicans we share similar views and liking for our rich heritage, music, food, performing arts and even our dances.
4. Language: The official language of Jamaica is English, while China's official language is Mandarin Chinese. Jamaicans also speak a creole language known as Patois, which is a blend of English, West African languages, and Spanish.
Religion: Jamaica is predominantly Christian, with a significant number of Rastafarians. China, on the other hand, has a diverse range of religious practices, including Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and Christianity.
Food: Jamaican cuisine is known for its spicy flavors, use of jerk seasoning, and incorporation of local ingredients such as yam, plantains, and ackee. Chinese cuisine varies widely depending on the region, but is generally characterized by a balance of flavors, use of rice or noodles, and use of vegetables and meat.
Music and Dance: Jamaica is known for its reggae music, which has gained international recognition. Jamaicans also have a unique style of dance known as dancehall. In contrast, China has a long history of traditional music and dance, including classical Chinese music and the ancient Chinese dance form known as "Chinese Ballet."
5. The quote "A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots" emphasizes the importance of cultural heritage and understanding one's roots. Just as the roots of a tree provide it with stability, nourishment, and support, our cultural heritage provides us with a sense of identity, belonging, and purpose.
Jamaica has a rich and diverse culture, with a mix of African, European, and Indigenous influences. Here are some of the things that Jamaicans share as a culture:
ReplyDeleteLanguage: Jamaicans share a unique dialect of English known as Jamaican Patois. This dialect has a distinct sound, grammar, and vocabulary that reflects the country's diverse cultural influences.
Music: Jamaica is renowned for its music, particularly reggae, which has become a global phenomenon. Other popular Jamaican musical genres include ska, dancehall, and gospel.
Cuisine: Jamaican cuisine is a fusion of African, European, and Indigenous influences. Some of the most popular Jamaican dishes include jerk chicken, ackee and saltfish, rice and peas, and curry goat.
Sports: Jamaicans are passionate about sports, particularly track and field. The country has produced some of the world's most successful sprinters, including Usain Bolt, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, and Elaine Thompson-Herah.
Festivals and Celebrations: Jamaicans celebrate a range of cultural festivals and holidays throughout the year, including Independence Day, Emancipation Day, and the Reggae Sumfest music festival.
Art and Crafts: Jamaican art and crafts are a reflection of the country's vibrant culture and history. These include wood carvings, pottery, basketry, and vibrant paintings and sculptures.
Religious Beliefs: Jamaica has a diverse religious landscape, with Christianity being the dominant faith. However, there are also significant numbers of Jamaicans who practice Rastafarianism, Hinduism, Islam, and other religions.
These are just a few examples of the things that Jamaicans share as a culture. Overall, Jamaica's rich cultural heritage is a reflection of the country's complex history and diverse influences.