Exploros | Eastern Europe: Society and Culture

Eastern Europe: Society and Culture

Students are introduced to folk dancing and explore what it is and what it reflects in a culture. They research various folk dance traditions around the world, then focus specifically on Eastern Europe. Next, students work in small groups to research the cultural elements of one of the Eastern European countries. Finally, students describe why someone might want to visit one of these countries.

This learning experience is designed for device-enabled classrooms. The teacher guides the lesson, and students use embedded resources, social media skills, and critical thinking skills to actively participate. To get access to a free version of the complete lesson, sign up for an exploros account.

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Overview

In this experience, students are introduced to folk dancing and explore what it is and what it reflects in a culture. They research various folk dance traditions around the world, then focus specifically on Eastern Europe. Next, students work in small groups to research the cultural elements of one of the Eastern European countries. Finally, students describe why someone might want to visit one of these countries.

In scene 3, students will work in small groups. You will assign each group one of seven countries for research, so try to have at least seven groups.

Note that there is no quiz at the end of this experience.

Objective:

Identify and explain cultural elements of various countries in Eastern Europe.

As with any large geographic region, Eastern Europe is home to many cultural traditions. In this experience you will explore some of these traditions throughout the region.

Objective:

Identify and explain cultural elements of various countries in Eastern Europe.

couples dancing wearing traditional costumes

Polish Polka Dance Troupe

To get a sneak peek at a cultural aspect of Bulgaria, watch Bulgarian Folk Dance.

What did you notice in the video?

Post your answer

Discuss students’ response. Point out that the dancers are in costumes that are part of their traditional Bulgarian culture. They all dance the same synchronized steps.

Then ask students to describe some of the things they do that are part of maintaining their culture—either in their families, schools, religious institutions, or other communities. They may mention dance, sports, food, religious holidays, and so on.

When everyone is ready to continue, unlock the next scene.