1) Pasta Origins The first two things that come to mind when most people think of pasta are spaghetti and Italians. But there are many different types of pasta, from acini to ziti. What’s more, pasta’s origins don’t lie in Italy. Pasta has its origins in China where it was allegedly “discovered” for Europeans by Marco Polo. Pasta quickly gained popularity and started evolving into different … Continue reading 5 Ways to Celebrate National Pasta Day!
ENVIRONMENT Sacred natural spaces can offer biodiversity and great opportunities for conservation. (Smithsonian) How do spiritual landscapes differ from other cultural landscapes? Teachers, scroll down for a quick list of key resources in our Teachers Toolkit. Discussion Ideas A new study examines biodiversity in sacred natural sites. What are sacred natural sites? Sacred natural sites (SNSs) are locations, natural landmarks, or natural geographic features that … Continue reading Sacred Sites Can Be Hotspots of Conservation
BUSINESS For the first time, a major American retailer is offering a dedicated line of decorations for the holiest period on the Islamic calendar: Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. (New York Times) Use our activity to learn more about how culture influences rituals surrounding Ramadan. Teachers, scroll down for a quick list of key resources in our Teachers Toolkit. Discussion Ideas Party City, the largest retailer … Continue reading Eid Comes to Party City
WORLD French mayors have banned full-body swimsuits known as “burkinis” from beaches, citing public order concerns. (Washington Post) Read through our study guide on hijab to better understand this misunderstood concept, and ideas about how to discuss it in class. Teachers, scroll down for a quick list of key resources in our Teachers Toolkit. Discussion Ideas Some French mayors have banned “burkinis” (sometimes spelled “burqinis”) … Continue reading What Are Burkinis? Why Are They Banned?
SPORTS Muhammad Ali, the legendary boxer acknowledged as the “athlete of the century,” has died. Here are some strategies for bringing “The Greatest of All Time” to your classroom. (Sports Illustrated) Use our resources to learn a little about one of icon’s most iconic moments—the Rumble in the Jungle. Discussion Ideas 1. ATHLETICS Boxing legend Muhammad Ali was declared the “Sportsman of the Century” by … Continue reading 4 of the Greatest Ways to Teach about Muhammad Ali
