Oklahoma Academic Standard 2. The student will demonstrate knowledge of basic geographic concepts.

Objective 2.5 Describe community customs and traditions as basic elements of culture.

In a Nutshell

It is important to continue to develop a deeper understanding of culture from previous studies by examining the variety of cultural traits present in the student’s community and state. Students should begin to understand how language, food, religion, and traditions help define us as individuals, as well as identify us as members of larger ethnic or cultural groups. By exploring cultural traits, students will also begin to develop an understanding of the common features of culture which different people share. 

Teacher Action 

Student Action 

• Provide opportunities for students to discuss how informed citizens can play an important role in the community by understanding and respecting the traditions and customs of others.

• Guide students to examine connections between compelling and supporting questions that help answer essential questions regarding cultural and traditional practices.  

• Discuss how being informed citizens can play an important role in the community by being aware of and respectful of cultural customs and traditions.

• Compose informative written products about the community’s cultural uniqueness focusing on the facts of a topic, including a main idea with supporting details. 

Key Concepts 

Misconceptions 

• basic cultural traits including customs, family traditions, holidays, foods, language, and religious traditions

• respect for diversity of cultures in the community  

• Some students may mistakenly draw conclusions that different cultures are strange or inferior to their own.

• Some students may assume that everyone in a community celebrates the same holidays.

Instructional Resources