Activity Overview
Our culture is what makes us all unique and each region different. The culture in the West centers around food, fun, and the weather. Spider maps are an excellent tool to help students organize facts in a systematic and visual manner. For this activity, students will create a spider map that illustrates different aspects of Midwestern culture. To differentiate, teachers could encourage students to complete more than 3 cells.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a 3 cell spider map explaining the culture of the West.
Student Instructions
- Click “Start Assignment”.
- Write a heading.
- Create an illustration that represents each heading using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Write a short summary of each heading in the space below the illustration.
Lesson Plan Reference
- [ELA-Literacy/W/4/7] Conduct short research projects that build knowledge through investigation of different aspects of a topic.
- [ELA-Literacy/RI/4/4] Determine the meaning of general academic and domain-specific words or phrases in a text relevant to a grade 4 topic or subject area.
- [ELA-Literacy/RI/4/7] Interpret information presented visually, orally, or quantitatively (e.g., in charts, graphs, diagrams, time lines, animations, or interactive elements on Web pages) and explain how the information contributes to an understanding of the text in which it appears.
- [ELA-Literacy/RI/4/10] By the end of year, read and comprehend informational texts, including history/social studies, science, and technical texts, in the grades 4-5 text complexity band proficiently, with scaffolding as needed at the high end of the range.
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Explanation | There are at least three cells in the storyboard. Titles and descriptions accurately depict the culture. | There are two cells in the storyboard. Titles and descriptions accurately depict the culture. | One cell is correct and the title and description are accurate and complete. |
| Illustrations | The illustrations represent the descriptions using appropriate scenes, characters and items. | The illustrations relate to the descriptions, but are difficult to understand. | The illustrations do not clearly relate to the descriptions. |
| Evidence of Effort | Work is well written and carefully thought out. | Work shows some evidence of effort. | Work shows little evidence of any effort. |
| Conventions | Spelling, grammar, and punctuation are mostly correct. | Spelling, grammar, and punctuation are somewhat correct. | Spelling, grammar, and punctuation are mostly incorrect. |
How to Reflect on Cultural Preservation and Heritage Conservation
Introduction to Cultural Preservation and Heritage Conservation
Start by introducing students to the concepts of cultural preservation and heritage conservation. Explain the importance of preserving cultural traditions, artifacts, and historical sites.
Explore Case Studies and Examples
Share case studies and real-life examples of successful cultural preservation and heritage conservation efforts from around the world. Discuss how these efforts have positively impacted communities and the world.
Reflection and Discussion
Facilitate a reflective discussion with students. Encourage them to share their thoughts and insights about the significance of preserving cultural heritage. Ask open-ended questions like: Why is it important to preserve cultural traditions and historical sites? How does cultural preservation contribute to a sense of identity and community? What are the challenges and ethical considerations in heritage conservation? What role can individuals and communities play in cultural preservation?
Student Projects and Action Plans
Assign students to work on projects or action plans related to cultural preservation and heritage conservation. These projects can include: Researching and presenting on a specific cultural tradition or historical site that's important to them. Creating awareness campaigns or social media posts to highlight the importance of cultural preservation. Proposing practical steps or initiatives to support cultural preservation efforts in their local community or globally. Encouraging students to reflect on their own cultural heritage and share their family traditions, stories, or objects that hold cultural significance.
Frequently Asked Questions about US Regions West - Culture
What are the main indigenous cultures of the Western United States, and how have they influenced the region's culture and traditions?
The Western US is home to diverse indigenous cultures, including the Navajo, Hopi, Pueblo, Apache, and many more. These cultures have deeply influenced the region's traditions through their art, music, storytelling, and spirituality. Their contributions are evident in the art forms, symbolism, and narratives woven into the cultural fabric of the Western United States.
What recommendations can you offer for students who want to create culturally enriching storyboards and worksheets that respect cultural sensitivity, authenticity, and celebrate the cultural tapestry of the Western United States?
Students should conduct thorough research, engage with indigenous communities, and seek permission when incorporating indigenous culture into their projects. They should prioritize accurate and respectful representation, avoid stereotypes, and use primary sources and expert guidance to ensure authenticity. Celebrating cultural diversity should be done with the utmost sensitivity and respect.
What is the role of storytelling and creative expression in designing culturally sensitive storyboards and worksheets, and how can students incorporate the values and narratives of the diverse cultures in the Western US?
Storytelling and creative expression are essential in culturally sensitive projects. Students should collaborate with indigenous representatives to gather narratives, values, and stories. They can incorporate traditional art forms, symbolism, and oral histories to reflect the richness of indigenous cultures. This ensures that their work is not only accurate but also a respectful celebration of cultural diversity in the Western US.
More Storyboard That Activities
US Regions: West
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