Overview
This unit will explore the concept of immigrants in general through the in-depth study of Indian immigrants and their effect on the culture of the United States. It will be taught in a heterogeneous fourth grade classroom at Yankee Ridge School. The children will learn more about themselves and others through this study. The unit will be taught through a combination of group research and whole class activities. The children will learn information about the Indian culture and important information about immigration and diversity that they will be able to apply in many different situations.
The unit will begin by investigating the childrenŐs preconceived notions about immigrants. Through our study, we will learn that not all immigrants fit the stereotypes. An immigrant will visit our class to dispel any stereotypes that the children may have. After the concept of immigration has been introduced and clarified, we will go on to discuss the symbolism of the Statue of Liberty. This will bring on some very important philosophical discussion about the treatment of immigrants and the attitude of the citizens of the United States. Next, the children will learn about the hardships of some immigrants and the limited physical materials that they could bring to their new home. This will lead nicely into a discussion of the non-tangible items that immigrants bring with them- many aspects of culture.
At this point, the children will dive into an intense look at a particular culture, India. It is important that they study this culture in order to better understand different aspects influencing those of Indian decent (and those of us who are not). The children will work in groups to conduct research on seven major regions of India. This is where they will gain much of their factual information. Many of the lessons in this unit will also be geared at cultural aspects of India, such as the arts, crops, cuisine, and literature.
Other lessons will be intended to build empathy and understanding in the children. The children will experience language difficulties of an immigrant, they will learn of real immigrant issues by reading "The Sunita Experiment", and many important issues will be discussed in Morning Meeting. This will provide a place for a great exchange of ideas on many "big" issues surrounding this topic.
Finally, some lessons will help the children see connections between cultures. They will learn the similarities that exist. They will also learn how culture is passed from one place to another. Often a great deal of time is spent on noticing the differences in people, not only in school curriculum, but also in life. It is important for the children to appreciate the similarities that they share with all people.
This unit can be extended to a great length of time depending on the demands of the classroom. The entire curriculum that is taught in this classroom is based on appreciating cultures. The children have spent a great deal of time learning about the Native American culture and African American culture. Many of the base concepts in this unit will be review and extensions on what has already been taught. We will spend two weeks teaching this unit on Asian Indian Immigration.
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