September was a vibrant month at AYTEF as we focused on cultural awareness. Through engaging activities and discussions, our students explored the rich tapestry of cultures that shape our lives and communities.
We kicked off the month by defining what culture means. The students eagerly shared their thoughts, identifying key elements such as traditions, race, food, beliefs, lifestyles, holidays, and religion. This foundational understanding set the stage for deeper exploration.
With the US Open happening earlier this month, we took the opportunity to discuss its significance as a cultural event. We visited the US Open website and discovered how it celebrates culture, featuring elements like Latin dance performances and HBCU inclusion. The students each picked a player from the current Men's bracket and conducted research on their respective countries, learning about the diverse backgrounds represented in the tournament.
On September 9th, our focus turned to celebrating diversity. Students participated in a whiteboard activity, responding to prompts such as “One thing that makes me unique is…” and “A language I speak or would like to learn is…”. This open discussion reinforced the idea that while we may be different, we all deserve to be celebrated.
We read the book My Name Is Yoon, which tells the story of a little girl from Korea who struggles with her name in English. This sparked a conversation about the significance of names and the students reflected on the origins and meanings of their own names. Afterward, they created personalized name plates adorned with colors, designs, and symbols that represent their personalities, family traditions, and cultural backgrounds.
The students also enjoyed a fun and educational session of cultural Blookets, where they could compete while learning about various cultures. Additionally, we opened our reward store on September 16th, allowing students to spend their earned tickets on fun rewards during “Monday Funday.”
As the month drew to a close, we dedicated our last day to cultural music and art. We discussed why people create art and music, then watched videos showcasing diverse musical traditions from around the world. The students learned about Native American Pow Wow drumming, African children's music, and the Lion Dance.
To culminate their learning, the students created their own art pieces inspired by traditional designs, turning them into puzzles. They had the choice to design either traditional Mexican textiles or African masks, showcasing their creativity while honoring cultural heritage.
September was a month filled with discovery, creativity, and celebration at AYTEF. Our students not only learned about cultural awareness but also embraced their own identities and those of their peers. As we move forward, we look forward to continuing this journey of understanding and appreciation for the rich diversity that surrounds us.
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