Cover of the textbook Performer B1, Vol. 1

The key answer of exercise 2

The key to exercise solutions in chapter 7 - Life Skills for the textbook Performer B1, Vol. 1 with authors Marina Spiazzi, Marina Tavella e Margaret Layton from Zanichelli

Question

Read the text and answer the questions.

Answer

  1. Cultural awareness is the ability to recognize and understand one's own cultural values and perspectives, as well as being conscious of how others from different cultures may perceive the world. It involves acknowledging and respecting diverse ways of thinking, behaving, and interacting.
  2. Becoming culturally aware is challenging because our cultural influences are often ingrained in us unconsciously. We learn our cultural norms and behaviors through experience and education, and it can be challenging to step outside of our cultural framework to understand and appreciate others.
  3. There are four levels of cultural awareness mentioned in the text.
  4. At the first level, people may believe that their cultural perspective is the only valid one, ignoring the impact of cultural differences. At the second level, individuals may be aware of alternative cultural practices but still prefer their own, often viewing cultural differences as problematic.
  5. At the third level, people understand that cultural diversity can offer new solutions and alternatives. They are more flexible in choosing the best approach based on the situation. At the fourth level, individuals from different cultural backgrounds collaborate to create communities with shared meanings.
  6. Racial and ethnic divisions can lead to misunderstandings, loss of opportunities, and sometimes violence. Managing cultural diversity is highlighted as a way to prevent and overcome these divisions.
  7. Recent research indicated that students in inclusive schools performed better. They felt a sense of belonging to the school community, which resulted in increased effort and success in their academic endeavors. This underscores the positive impact of appreciating and managing cultural diversity in creating a just and inclusive society.