Advent Traditions around the World (Advanced)

Objective: This worksheet aims to deepen students' understanding of Advent traditions globally, including their cultural variations, historical evolution, and modern challenges such as commercialization, while fostering critical thinking and reflection on cultural preservation.

Content and methods: The worksheet begins by prompting students to recall Advent traditions they know. It then presents three short texts describing Advent celebrations in three different countries, highlighting unique aspects and some criticisms of modernization. Students answer questions based on these texts to demonstrate comprehension. Subsequently, an interview with a cultural scientist, Dr. Emily Harper-Wilson, provides a broader perspective on the development of Advent traditions, discussing their historical roots, cultural exchanges, and modern developments like commercialization and digital calendars, along with their potential problems and ways to address them. Students are then asked to explain the evolution of traditions and the issues associated with modern developments based on the interview.

Competencies:

Reading comprehension
Cross-cultural understanding
Historical analysis of cultural practices
Critical thinking about commercialization and technological impact on traditions
Summarization and explanation of complex information

Target group: 8th-10th grade

85 other teachers use this template

Target group and level

Grade 8 and above

Subjects

Geographynon-subject specific contentPolitics

Preview

Advent Traditions around the World (Advanced)

Iceland

In Iceland, Advent is a time of exciting folklore and familial traditions. We celebrate with the tales of the Yule Lads, thirteen mischievous pranksters who descend from the mountains one by one starting on December 12. Each night, children place a shoe on their window sills, and a Yule Lad leaves a small gift or a rotten potato, depending on the child's behavior. Growing up, I remember the thrill of waking up to see what the Yule Lad had left. Over time, the Yule Lads have become more benevolent figures, akin to Santa Claus, but they still hold a unique place in our culture. Some criticize this shift, arguing it dilutes our rich folklore and the traditional values of discipline and good behavior.

An Icelandic adult sharing stories about the Yule Lads with children, in a cozy living room with Christmas decorations and a roaring fireplace.

Mexico

In Mexico, Advent is a time filled with vibrant celebrations and deep-rooted traditions. Starting from December 12 with the feast of the Virgin of Guadalupe, we have daily processions called Posadas from December 16 to 24, reenacting Mary and Joseph's search for shelter. As a child, I loved participating in these processions, singing carols, and breaking piñatas. Over the years, some of these traditions have evolved, incorporating elements from the United States, like Christmas trees and Santa Claus. However, the heart of our celebrations remains. Critics often point out the increasing commercialization of Christmas, which they feel overshadows our rich cultural heritage and the religious significance of the season.

A Mexican adult participating in a Posada procession, carrying a candle and singing carols, with children dressed as Mary and Joseph.

Germany

In Germany, Advent is a cherished time of preparation and anticipation. We light candles on the Advent wreath every Sunday, and children eagerly open a door on their Advent calendars each day leading up to Christmas. On December 6th, we celebrate Nikolaustag, where St. Nicholas leaves sweets and small gifts in children's boots if they've been good. I remember the joy of finding treats in my boot as a child. Over time, some traditions have become more commercialized, with a greater focus on gift-giving and elaborate decorations. This has drawn criticism from those who feel that the true spirit of Advent, a time of reflection and religious preparation, is being lost.

A German adult lighting candles on an Advent wreath, surrounded by family in a warmly decorated home with an Advent calendar hanging on the wall.

The interview

Now read an interview with a cultural scientist and learn more about the development of Advent traditions.