Cultural Awareness

two young women sitting next to each other in a field
Type: Vocabulary
Originally published on March 11, 2023 and last updated on May 14, 2023

Conversations related to cultural awareness are an excellent topic for advanced English learners to discuss because they not only enhance their language proficiency but also help them gain a deeper understanding of different cultures and their customs.

As English is the global language of business, politics and academia, advanced learners who can understand cultural nuances and communicate effectively across cultures are better equipped to succeed in their professional and personal lives.

Conversation-style questions related to cultural awareness in English requires a high level of language proficiency, including vocabulary related to different cultural practices, customs and traditions. Advanced learners can also learn idiomatic expressions, phrasal verbs and other colloquial language used in cultural contexts.

 

Instructions:
Go through the vocabulary below with your students and ask them to try and use this vocabaulry where possible when discussing the different conversation questions.

About Cultural Awareness

Cultural awareness refers to understanding and appreciating the values, beliefs, customs and practices of different cultures. It involves recognizing and respecting the differences between cultures and understanding how these differences shape people’s behaviour, attitudes and communication styles.

Cultural awareness involves being open-minded and non-judgmental, as well as recognizing that cultural differences can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts. It requires developing an understanding of how culture shapes our perceptions, attitudes and behaviour while learning to adapt our communication style to effectively communicate with people from different cultural backgrounds.

Cultural awareness is important in many areas of life, including business, education, healthcare and social interactions. In a globalized world, where people from different cultures interact on a daily basis, cultural awareness is essential to building positive relationships, creating a harmonious workplace and promoting mutual respect and understanding.

Useful Vocabulary

Try and use the following vocabulary when answering the question. Click to look up the definition in the dictionary

  • multiculturalism (noun)
  • tolerant (adjective)
  • open-minded (adjective)
  • xenophobia (noun)
  • overcome (verb)
  • break down barriers (phrase)
  • blend in (phrasal verb)
  • walk a mile in someone else's shoes (idiom)

Questions About Cultural Awareness

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  • What does cultural awareness mean to you?
  • How important is cultural awareness in today's society?
  • What are some challenges you have faced when communicating with people from different cultures?
  • Should cultural awareness be taught in schools as part of the curriculum?
  • Do you think it's possible to be completely free of cultural bias and prejudice?
  • How important is it for leaders and politicians to have a deep understanding of different cultures and customs?
  • Does cultural awareness lead to a more harmonious and accepting society?
  • Should cultural appropriation be considered disrespectful or harmful?
  • How can we promote cultural awareness and understanding in our communities?
  • What are some cultural customs or traditions that you find interesting or fascinating?
  • Does the media perpetuate stereotypes and biases about certain cultures?
  • How can we avoid making assumptions or stereotypes about people from different cultures?
  • Should governments prioritize promoting cultural awareness and understanding among their citizens?
  • How do cultural differences affect our daily lives?
  • What are some benefits of having a diverse and multicultural society?
Gregory
This conversation topic was prepared by Gregory

Gregory is a qualified TEFL teacher who has been teaching English as a Foreign Language (ESL) for over a decade. He has taught in-person classes in Spain and to English learners around the world online.