One way to improve writing skills is to practice writing.  This lesson allows students to gain awareness of various Christmas traditions around the world.  Students are then asked to reflect on their own traditions and customs.  By comparing their personal experiences to the other traditions that are shared, students gain an awareness of the norms that exist outside of their own lives.  This skill is especially encouraged, since so often students perceive their own customs and lifestyles as dominant.  Creating awareness within other cultures makes what originally seemed “odd” begins to make sense with increased exposure, transforming the “odd” to unique, interesting, and distinctive traits that are present in other cultures. 

Essential Questions

·      How do your Christmas traditions compare to other locations around the world? 

·      how do traditions and customs influence our culture?

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