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Appropriate for ages 6-11 (Grades 1-5). This program consists of
pre-presentation information, a 45 minute interactive life-size puppet
play
and follow-up activities.
Featuring Daniel Cole, Nam Nguyen, Joanne Spinoza, and Valerie Perkins.
This presentation is designed to examine
how a
person might find examples of culture in his or her own life and
explore
some of the conflicts which may arise when people of varying
backgrounds and
belief systems come together. Although the characters address specific
situations in their own lives and cultures, the main focus is not on
the
foreign and unique, but rather on how children can find common ground
in
their similarities and approach their differences in a sensitive,
caring
manner.
New Names
Nam is upset that everyone mispronounces his name. Valerie helps him to realize that it is part of who he is and he should be proud of his name and culture.
Where's the Culture?
Joanne and some of her friends from Woodburn Jr. High School are
helping
groups of fifth grade students come up with presentations for culture
week.
Believing that she has "no culture," Joanne is unsure how to help her
group.
She asks some friends about their presentations. With the help of Nam
and
Valerie, Joanne begins to realize that everyone has a culture and that
it
can come from many parts of life.
Anything you can do.....
Valerie is upset when she does not get the position of sports reporter
for the
school paper. Armed with some deeply ingrained stereotypes, Joanne is
less
than sympathetic. Later, Joanne's preconceived notions cause her to
turn
down assistance from a male friend. Together, Nam and Jo discuss
gender
roles and how perceptions can affect opportunities.
Holidays: More than Presents
Joanne has made holiday greeting cards for the P.T.A. fundraiser.
Believing
that everyone celebrates the holidays which her cards represent, Joanne
expects to be overwhelmed with orders. With the help of Valerie and
Nam,
Joanne learns that just like there are many different types of people,
there
are many different types of holidays as well.
Post-Presentation
There are a number of follow-up activities that are included in the
package.
After students have participated in the puppet performance there are a
number of activities that can be done with the young people to
stimulate
discussion on the topic of Multiculturalism.
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