In third grade, students are diving deep into Unit 3: Culture, Curiosity, Research: A Study in Empathy. During this unit, students are enhancing their research skills, exploring various cultures, and building empathy by understanding different perspectives.
What better way to build curiosity and enhance the student experience than by allowing students to bring in cultural artifacts from home? This authentic learning opportunity encourages students to share and learn from one another, deepening their understanding of the cultures they are studying. As part of their exploration of Lunar New Year and Korean culture, students had the chance to try on a hanbok (traditional Korean attire) that their teacher wore as a child. To further enrich their experience, a kindergarten student, who is Korean, was invited to share insights about Lunar New Year traditions, adding a personal touch to the lesson.
This approach not only connects students to real-world experiences but also strengthens their appreciation for the diversity within their community, fostering empathy and a deeper understanding of different cultural practices.