DUE: FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 19, 2014
Our cultural identity, ethnic identity and views of social norms are created by the experiences, dreams and realities of our ancestors. Knowledge of our lineage takes on many forms. Stories about family that have been passed down
(written or orally), photographs of family, and of course public records help us define our own cultural identity.
How might the experiences of your family members shape you?
The past offers us a unique and intriguing map to the present.
Alternate: If your family history or culture is completely unknown, research a specific culture you’d like to learn more about, analyze what aspects and traditions you find appealing and which you do not. If you choose this option, you
MUST cite your information. You can do this using EasyBib ( http://easybib.com/ ).
You will have 2 days to research this assignment and 3 days to organize and type your final draft. The final essay will be submitted to Turnitin.com.
Are you having trouble organizing your thoughts? Here is a list of ideas to discuss with your family.
 Immigration (Forced or by choice? Time period? From
Where?)
 Colorful tales (Ex: Anyone famous in your family?)
 Historical precedent (where did your family settle and why?)
 How does understanding the past help us understand the present?
 Questions when researching my heritage/family culture
 Family celebrations/holidays and why they are important
Your Essay Must Have:
 4 full paragraphs to meet the proficient level
 Proper organizational format (please see outline)
 Times New Roman, 12 point font
 Double spaced
 At least 2 characteristics/aspects of your culture
EA1 Writer’s Web Checklist: This checklist is provided for you to keep track of the elements needed for your essay to be successful.
Ideas: o Maintain a central idea o Develop an explanation of cultural identity o Use a range of explanation or evidence
Structure o Organized o Has a sense of completeness o Introduce ideas and transition/link them o Provide a conclusion o
Use varied transitions
Use of Language o Use diction and appropriate syntax o
Proper MUGS o Eliminate errors in my writing by
PROOFREADING