American Culture Emily Waggener

Content area: Social Studies Grade level: 2nd grade Summary: The purpose of this Instructional PowerPoint is to learn about the different aspects of culture in America. Learning objective: Learn the different parts of a culture in America like religion, beliefs, customs, ceremonies and traditions. CCSS: 2.1 Compare the beliefs, customs, ceremonies, and traditions of the varied cultures represented in the United States by researching informational texts. ISTE: 1.d. Identify trends and forecast possibilities

Culture What is culture? American Culture: Culture is the beliefs, customs, clothing, food, and arts of a particular society, group, place, or time. American Culture: The United States is one of the most culturally diverse countries IN THE WORLD!

Characteristics of American Culture Americans like their own, personal space. It is important to Americans to be on time! Can you think of a time when it is important to be on time? Americans wait for their turn in line. Americans are very concerned about cleanliness

B) Wait your turn in line C) Be on time to school What is a rule that we go by at school that makes us a part of American culture? A) No touching B) Wait your turn in line C) Be on time to school D) Make sure to wash your hands E) All of the above

GOOD job!! That is correct!! We have several rules at school that make us look like we belong to the American culture!

Beliefs Did you know…? Basically every religion is practiced in the United States because of the amendment in the Constitution stating that there must be freedom of religion! The most practiced religion in America is Christianity. Only 0.6% of Americans are Muslims.

foods What are some of your favorite foods?? (Discuss with your shoulder partner) The American culture is full of yummy foods! Hamburgers Macaroni and cheese Potato chips Hot dogs!!

Foods Food in the American culture is different based on where you are also! South: The food in the south is often referred to as “comfort food”. Macaroni and cheese, fried chicken, and greens Southwest: “Tex-Mex” The foods in this area are a combination of Spanish and Hispanic cultures.

arts The United States is leading the world in productions including television shows and movies. Television shows began being very popular in the 1950s! Music is very diverse in America. There are different types including blues, pop, gospel, country, rock ‘n roll, and jazz. Theatre is very popular also. Broadway is in New York.

Sports What sport is known as “America’s favorite pastime”? A) Football B) Soccer C) Baseball D) Basketball

Great job!! Baseball is known as America’s favorite pastime!!

Sports Baseball is America’s favorite pastime. Basketball, football, soccer, and hockey have also become popular in the past few decades.

OOPS!! That is incorrect! Let’s try again!

Uh oh! Let’s try again! Here’s a hint: America’s favorite pastime plays for a long period of time!

Summary American culture truly is a melting pot. There are so many different characteristics of American culture that make it one of a kind. There are several different beliefs, languages, foods, and interests that make America a place of opportunity and originality.

References Zimmermann, K. (2015, January 15). American Culture: Traditions and Customs of the United States. Retrieved March 21, 2015, from http://www.livescience.com/28945americanculture.html Cultural Customs in the U.S. (n.d.). Retrieved March 21, 2015, from https://www.interexchange.org/american- culture/cultural-customs-us