The Migration of Me Miss Brown 5 th Grade Social Studies

Where do I begin?  Heritage: the traditions, achievements, beliefs, etc., that are part of the history of a group or nation. Heritage is inherited by us through our parents.  Culture: commonly shared beliefs, traditions, and everyday practices of a particular ethnic group.  What’s your heritage? What’s the difference between culture and heritage?

An example: Miss Brown’s Heritage  Paternal: surname- Brown, Welsh and Cherokee heritage  Maternal: mother’s maiden name: Cassara, Italian, specifically Sicilian, heritage (Palermo, Sicily)  With which heritage do I identify ?

So, where in the world is Sicily?

What does Sicily look like?

Let’s look at it differently: a physical map

What is the culture like?  History: an island inhabited  Agricultural lifestyle: “Whatever I eat today, may I eat next year.”  Religious beliefs and traditions- strong connection to Saints and the “evil eye.”  Food: mixed cultures due to history- Arab influence  Holidays: the feste  Importance of family  Think/pair/share: can geography influence culture?

So…why do we care?  “My heritage is part of who I am!”  We learn through our own origins how different aspects of history, geography, politics, and other facets of our world influence are influenced by cultures

Let’s practice!  In groups of 3-4 explore the Martinez family’s heritage. They trace their lineage back to Lima, Peru. Using the resources provided:  1. Estimate the coordinates using the world map.  2. Check work by using appropriate sites to confirm the absolute location.  3. Identify at least one geographical feature of the region using a physical map.  4. Identify significant aspects of the culture.  5. Brainstorm ways in which the geography can affect the culture.

Follow the steps using YOUR heritage:  1. Estimate the coordinates using the world map.  2. Check work by using appropriate sites to confirm the absolute location.  3. Identify at least one geographical feature of the region using a physical map.  4. Identify significant aspects of the culture.  5. Brainstorm ways in which the geography can affect the culture- or vice versa!  6. Think about how the information is relevant to the your knowledge of their heritage and idea of self- identity.  Lastly: put it in a paragraph!