Around the World Kids Activities

Activities and games help students learn about other countries and cultures.

When learning about the world and different cultures, games and activities can help bring the concepts alive. Invite children to study about a culture foreign to them or discuss their own culture with the rest of the class.

Sharing Your Culture

Ask each child to select one of the countries his immigrant ancestors come from (or the United States for Native American students). It will be the responsibility of each student to read more about the culture for a presentation to the class. The children may present their findings just orally, or include a tri-fold board for easier viewing. Encourage the children to dress up in cultural costumes or bring in cultural food.

Around the World Bingo

Before you begin this game, purchase blank Bingo cards, which can be purchased at teacher supply stores or your local dollar store. You can buy one for each student, or just purchase one and make copies. Write down a variety of questions about different countries or cultures you have been studying with your class. Next, you'll write the answers (the name of the country or a city works best) on the board. Students will write down the answers in any order on their Bingo card. You will then ask the students the questions and they will cross off the answers. The first student with five correct answers up and down, straight across or diagonally wins.

Race for the Map

Before you begin this game, find a map of a part of the world you have been studying with your class. Use white out to block out the names of the countries, or tape small pieces of paper over them and then make copies. Hand out maps to the students in groups (no more than six) or individually, then ask students to fill in the map. The first student to complete the map accurately wins. However, students or groups must have you check them off before being deemed a "winner."

References

• Syvum: World Geography