Our country, The United States of America, has been known as the "Great American Melting Pot" because there is such a rich heritage from immigrants from all over the world. This diversity of cultures came about because the Americas offered land, hope and opportunity. Texas was part of this and, perhaps, provided a greater diversity to our national identity than any other state. This began with the early Spaniards and continued with the "six flags" that have flown over our soil. Add to that settlers from the Canary Islands, both Slaves and Freemen from Africa, Germans, Italians and even Chinese who came to build the earliest railroads. Then we add the rich heritage brought to us by the Native American and Mexican cultures. These people groups from all over the world are the ones who have made us what we are! Texans are known as a unique people not only throughout our nation but throughout the world. Texas is the hotspot in the great American melting pot.
Your Assignment: Each class will be provided with construction paper to make a chart about the cultures that contributed to the formation of the culture of Texas. On this chart each group will fill in information about a specific people group that has influenced the formation of Texas culture. Each group will teach the class about the specific people group that they have become experts on during a class presentation in which they fill in their portion of the chart.
As presentations are made each student will complete
an 8 1/2 X 11 Chart for their resource folder.
The chart will include -
1. A title that indicates the people group assigned. Provided by Mr. Bulin.
2. Country or countries of origin.
3. Area(s) of Texas first settled.
4. Years of early settlement.
5. Contributions to Texas foods.
6. Contributions to Texan's language.
7. Customs and/or Festivals that are observed in our state.
8. Contributions to the music of Texas and the U.S.
Grades will be determined by -
1. Student effort and classroom work. (20%)
2. Have all 8 requirements been met. (20%)
3. Neatness of the presentation. (20%)
4. Attractiveness of the project including choice of colors. (15%)
5. Is the project free of mistakes and spelling errors.(15%)
6. Classroom presentation is done in a professional and dignified manner. (10%)
This Project will be a Test Grade!!!!!
Please see below for links to information for the project.
Library Books and other resources will be used.
Music may be played in the classroom to demonstrate the various cultures.
