As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, it’s important for students to be exposed to diverse cultures and traditions. One culture that is often overlooked is that of Taiwan. Taiwan, a small island off the coast of China, boasts a rich history and an intriguing blend of indigenous, Chinese, and Japanese influences. Here are some ideas for teaching students about Taiwanese culture:
1. Introduce the geography and history of Taiwan. Show students where Taiwan is located on a map and its proximity to China and Japan. Discuss how Taiwan was colonized by the Dutch, then ruled by China, before becoming a Japanese colony and later a democracy.
2. Highlight Taiwanese food and drink. Taiwanese cuisine is a fusion of Chinese, Japanese, and indigenous flavors. Introduce students to popular dishes such as beef noodle soup, bubble tea, and stinky tofu. Consider having a cooking or tasting session in class.
3 Discuss traditional Taiwanese arts. Taiwan has a rich tradition of performing arts, including puppetry, opera, and dance. Show students videos of Taiwanese puppet shows or folk dances and have them analyze the movements and symbolism.
4. Expose students to Taiwanese literature and poetry. Taiwan has produced many celebrated writers and poets, such as Lin Yutang and Yu Guangzhong. Read excerpts from their works and discuss the cultural and historical context.
5. Explore Taiwanese festivals and holidays. Taiwan celebrates many unique festivals and holidays, such as the Lunar New Year, the Dragon Boat Festival, and the Mid-Autumn Festival. Have students research these festivals and compare them to similar holidays celebrated in their own cultures.
