Culture Quilt

Culture Quilt

Your child’s first homework assignment for 3^rd grade is to complete a Culture Quilt -- a representation that allows us to get to know each other on a deeper level than other “getting to know me”-type activities. For this activity to be meaningful, you will need to work with your child to answer the questions.  Some of these questions may be challenging for 3^rd graders, but in my experience they have provided some important conversations for families and for the class. I ask that you attempt to discuss and have your child answer all of the questions. If you have any specific issues, please contact me.

Suggested schedule:

-Days 1 & 2: Look over questions and discuss as a family

-Days 3 & 4: Brainstorm and jot down answers on the sheet provided.

-Days 5-7: Create quilt on poster board using craft materials, pictures, drawings, etc.

-Day 8: Practice presenting quilt to family.

Final Project:

*A “quilt” on poster board with 16 rectangles that answer the questions.

            -Each rectangle can have words and/or pictures.

            -The “quilt” should be colorful.

            -Due: Friday, August 15, 2014

*Materials needed:

            -Poster board

            -Crayons, colored pencils, markers, etc.

            -Pictures (photographs, clip art, drawings, etc.)

            -Scissors

            -Glue

            -Other craft materials, if needed

I believe you will find the project rewarding and meaningful as a family. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact me.

Culture Quilt Directions

Due date: Friday, August 15, 2014 (You can turn it in earlier, if you are finished).

Purpose: For all of us to get to know one another.

Materials: poster board, markers, craft items

Directions:

1. As a family, brainstorm ideas for each square of your quilt.
2. Design a quilt on poster board using the model below as a guide.
3. Practice presenting your quilt to your family.

Family History	Cultural Other	Cultural Self-Personal	Cultural Self-Student
What country, other than the United States, do you identify as a place of origin for you and your family?	With what culture, other than your own, are you familiar?	What is your preferred learning style? How do you like to learn?	What characteristics do you exhibit as a student?
What word or concept best describes your family?	With what culture, other than your own, are you least familiar and would like to learn more about?	How would you describe your schooling experience?	Who was your most influential K-2 teacher?
What piece of advice or wisdom (one that reflects the values of your family) has been handed down through the generations?	What has been your most challenging cultural experience? Think about new experiences.	What is your most valuable trait?	What is your greatest challenge as a student?
What celebration, ceremony, or ritual do you and your family value and observe?	What negative comment or stereotype have you heard people make about the members of your cultural, racial, or ethnic group?	How do you like to spend your spare time?	What is your role as a student?

*Culture Quilt created by J. J. Irvine based on:

 Bennett, C. (1999). Comprehensive Multicultural Education: Theory and Practice. Boston: Allyn & Bacon.