Additional Resources

Purpose: Encourage thoughtful group conversations about global culture—how it shapes identity, evolves, and connects us. Designed for ages 12+ in classrooms or community settings.

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 Opening the Conversation

1. Establish Ground Rules

• Practice respect, curiosity, and active listening.

• Acknowledge: no single person defines an entire culture.

2. What Is Culture?
Ask participants:

• What composes culture? (e.g. language, art, food, traditions)

• Can one person belong to multiple cultures?

(Optional: Draw a “Culture Web” on a flip chart with contributions.)

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Core Discussion Topics

Identity & Personal Connection

• How does culture shape our sense of self?

• Have you ever felt your cultural identity change?

• Which aspect of your culture do you feel strongest about?

Tradition vs. Modern Influence

• How are traditions passed down today?

• In what ways do trends alter or revive traditions?

• Can modernization exist without cultural loss?

Global Exchange & Technology

• How does social media impact cultural sharing?

• How do we distinguish cultural appreciation from appropriation?

• Have you discovered another culture through media? How?

Challenges & Stereotypes

• What stereotypes exist in your context?

• Have you experienced cultural misunderstandings?

• Should we preserve endangered cultural practices? How?

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 Key Resources

• Identity & Culture

  • Facing History – Culture & Identity Resources

  • BBC Bitesize – What Is Culture?

• Global Exchange

  • National Geographic – Globalization and Culture

  • UNESCO – Promoting Cultural Diversity

• Appropriation vs. Appreciation

  • NPR – What Cultural Appropriation Really Means

  • Learning for Justice – Teaching Cultural Appropriation

• Youth Culture

  • Brookings – How Youth Culture Is Shaping the World

  • PBS – Cultural Identity & Belonging

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Facilitator Tips

• Encourage everyone to share their own stories.

• Avoid making individuals spokespeople for entire cultures.

• Be open to uncertainty—culture is layered and evolving.

• Support both pride and constructive critique in discussions.