In Chapter 9, we define culture as "a dynamic, creative, and continuous process including behaviors, values and substance learned and shared by people that guides them in their struggle for survival and gives meaning to their lives." Following this definition, culture might, therefore, describe members of a particular racial or ethnic group (Latinos or Jews), a geographic group (New Englanders or Southerners), family structure (single-parent families, adoptive families), a generational group (baby boomers)-in fact, any group with an identifiable bond, a common set of values and norms of behavior, even a special language. An individual can belong to many cultures.

Bring in to class 5-7 artifacts that represent a cultural group you belong to. Select items that have symbolic value-that represent values, attitudes, orientations, beliefs. Be prepared to discuss how these artifacts symbolize your culture and how that culture has influenced you as a person, a student and a future educator. Hand in an annotated inventory, listing your artifacts, their symbolism, and their impact on your identity.