Carousel of Cultures

The study of another language enables a student to understand a different culture on its own terms. The exquisite connection between the culture that is lived and the language that is spoken can only be realized by those who possess both.

                                   --   Standards for Foreign Language Learning

                                        Preparing for the 21^st Century

Carousel of Cultures is a bilingual project for grades three to six driven by the national standards of several disciplines. The project provides bilingual students with a stimulating method of acquiring second language skills using a project-based learning approach. Carousel of Cultures encourages students to become skilled in research and critical thinking skills as they explore different cultures, thus, helping to promote and foster respect, tolerance and understanding of diversity.

This project takes advantage of the resourceful nature of elementary bilingual learners, guiding them to produce meaningful products that demonstrate comprehension as well as higher-order thinking skills. Students’ fluency in the new language is encouraged and supported through the creation of authentic products.

Carousel of Cultures combines project-based learning and research as a vehicle for students to learn the value of cultural diversity. This standards driven project capitalizes on the openness and ingenuity of young minds to produce meaningful products that support acceptance and inclusion of diversity while developing fluency in a new language.

Incorporating a multicultural perspective, Carousel of Cultures features a comprehensive introduction and two distinct yet interrelated learning phases containing many hands-on experiences and strategies for second language learning. The culminating event offers students the opportunity to demonstrate their second language proficiency as well promote self-esteem and pride in their own culture or heritage.

• Phase One: My Culture, My Family – Students will develop an understanding of culture with an exploration of their own family’s traditions, customs, and beliefs. They will use digital photographs and drawings to create books about their own cultural heritage and family customs.

• Phase Two: Cultures Around the World – Students will take full advantage of the Atlases and comprehensive information on countries to research and study cultures from around the world. As a result of their investigation, students will create a “virtual tour” of one country, highlighting its people and customs. They will also create a “travel package” to that country, including posters, brochures, and souvenirs.

The culminating activity will be A Cultural Extravaganza! This event will be an opportunity to celebrate student achievement. Students will present what they have learned and display their projects to invited guests.