Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[ShazLA]

Hi everybody! I am taking a class on how to teach Reading to students from many backgrounds. My professor wants us to interview people who came to the United States from other cultures, so we can understand cultural differences and ultimately help kids make adjustments necessary to be successful in U.S. schools.

If you have time, and would like to help (I would REALLY appreciate it!) please answer the following questions. (If you feel some are too personal, you may skip them.) If you would rather not post your answers here, use the Private Messaging. It would also be helpful to include the grade you were in, when you moved.

If you have any other messages or comments, I would like to hear those as well.

THANK YOU!

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1. Where did your ancestors come from?

2. Why did they/you come to the United States?

3. Where does most of your cultural community live?

4. What are the more popular jobs for your community?

5. What are the popular unique terms and gestures used by your community?

6. Do families stay close geographically as they grow up?

7. Do multiple generations live in the same household?

8. Who are the decision makers in the family?

9. How does the decision making process happen?

10. How are elders treated in the family and community?

11. How is respect shown?

12. Do family members have certain cultural names?


13. Who are married children influenced by the most in their decision making? Prioritize.

__children __grandparents __cultural leaders
__parents __nieces/nephews __spiritual leaders
__siblings __neighbors __other

14. What are some special values and beliefs your culture upholds?

15. Is your community focused more on the individual or the group? Please state an example.

16. What are some ways a teacher can act that are culturally appropriate in your community?