Assignment task: Perform a self-study of the culture(s) shared by you, your family, and your social groups. Examine aspects of the cultures you belong to, identify sources and reasons for the behaviors and beliefs.
Q1. How is knowledge of the group's history preserved; in what ways is it passed on to new generations (e.g., writings, aphorisms or opinions, proverbs or sayings)?
Q2. Among your cultural group, what holidays and celebrations are observed? What is their purpose?
Q3. What methods for teaching and learning are used at home (e.g., modeling and imitation, didactic stories and proverbs, direct verbal instruction)?
Q4. Are there different expectations with respect to different groups (e.g., boys vs. girls)? In different subjects?
Q5. Considering your culture, what kinds of work are prestigious and why?
Q6. How and to what extent may approval or disapproval be expressed in you culture?
Q7. What significance does adherence to traditional culture [before 1900s] have for individual success or achievement?
Q8. Are particular behavioral prescriptions or taboos associated with the seasons?
Q9. What forms of art and music are most highly valued?
Q10. Are there any behavioral prescriptions or taboos related to art and music (e.g., both sexes sing, play a particular instrument, paint or photograph nude images, etc.)?