Mexico vs. The U.S. Comparing & Contrasting some of the Differences in the Values and Particular Aspects of Both Cultures

Guess… Between Mexico and the U.S., which of these countries do you think implements uniforms as a dress code in their school systems the most??

School Uniforms: Mexico It is typical, in Mexico, for the student to use a uniform from preschool up until middle school or Jr. high school. Once in high school, it is usually no longer required, although there are exceptions.

School Uniforms: the U.S. In the U.S., most schools (including preschool---university) do not require the use of uniforms. However, there are schools that do use uniforms, but most of these are private schools or catholic.

Guess… What do you think the typical Mexican does during their lunch break?

Lunch Time: Mexico In Mexico, like most other Latino/Hispanic/Spanish cultures, lunch time is about 2 hours long (usually from noon to 2 P.M.) This time is called, “la siesta” and during this time, generally Mexicans will go home and eat a home cooked meal (with the entire, immediate family, if possible) that is already prepared by the housewife/at-home- mom or “la alma de casa”. For those who don’t have this time they bring create grill to cook their own food from home. They prefer prepared, cooked meals.

Guess… What does the typical American do during their lunch break? How long is the average American lunch break?

Lunch Time: the U.S. In the U.S., the average lunch break is 30 minutes long. It’s common for Americans to rush to their nearest, favorite fast food restaurant and order through the drive thru. OR Lunch can be “easily” eaten at the work place….while working. This is also common.

What do you think? What are the differences between the two? What do you think this says about the lifestyle we (Americans) lead and our values or what’s important to us, in contrast to that of Mexicans? Is it good or bad?

Guess… What brand of car do you think the most popular luxury would be in Mexico?

Luxury Vehicles: Most popular car in Mexico #1 Nissan ………………………. Japan #2 General Motors ……………….. U.S. #3 Volkswagen …………………….. Germany #4 Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep …………. U.S. #5 Ford …………………………….. Ford

Guess… Now, what do you think the most popular luxury car would be in the U.S.??

Luxury Vehicles: Most popular cars in the U.S. #1 Lexus RX …………………….. Japan #2 Mercedes-Benz C-Class …………… Germany #3 BMW 3-Series ……………… Germany #4 BMW 5-Series ………………………….. Germany #5 Mercedes-Benz E-Class ……………… Germany

What do you think? What differences are there between the popular luxury cars of Mexico and the ones of the U.S.? Do you think these differences are due to financial limitations, location, or both?? Do you think that there may be a difference in influence from these countries? For example, the U.S. may be more socially influenced by Europe than Mexico…??

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