Topic 2: Cultural Geography of Germany

Lesson Objective

The student will use photographic and often other information sources to test, verify and possibly revise, initial impressions of Germany and its people.

Materials and Resources

Transparency 17 - “Statue of Liberty”

Transparency 18 - “Brandenburg Gate”

Strategies

An important reason for studying Germany is to provide students a look at events from the perspective of a different culture. To dramatize this point, display Transparency 17, “Statue of Liberty”. Without comment or explanation ask participants to jot a list of adjectives describing their reaction to the picture. When they finish, ask them to share their responses. The teacher should list the responses on the chalkboard without discussion. Repeat the activity by showing Transparency 18 ”Brandenburg Gate”, generating a list of adjectives, and asking students to share their responses.

Debrief the activity by comparing the two lists of adjectives. Generally, the lists differ in that the Statue of Liberty elicits words of emotion and patriotism, while the Brandenburg Gate will elicit words which are less emotional and more factual descriptions. Point out to the class that a German responding to these same photographs would probably respond in a reverse manner. Stress to students that being able to see issues and events from multiple perspectives helps us better understand our own perspective on the world.

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