NOTE: If you are short on time, watch the video and complete this See, Think, Wonder activity: What did you notice? What did the story make you think about? What would you want to learn more about?
SUMMARY
Millions of Americans are expected to go on a European vacation this summer. Many of those going for the first time are likely to be following the advice of travel writer Rick Steves, host of “Rick Steves’ Europe” on PBS stations.
View the transcript of the story.
News alternative: Check out recent segments from the NewsHour, and choose the story you’re most interested in watching. You can make a Google doc copy of discussion questions that work for any of the stories here.
WARM-UP QUESTIONS
- Who is the the travel expert discussing how to approach summer vacation in Europe?
- What trip inspired Rick Steves to become a travel writer?
- Where in Europe is Steves's favorite country?
- When did Steves choose being a traveler over a tourist?
- Why is embracing culture shock important for a traveler?
FOCUS QUESTIONS
- What is culture shock?
- Why do you think Rick Steves's approach to travel, which embraces culture shock, is essential to understanding different cultures?
Media literacy: How do you usually form your understanding of other cultures? Do you think firsthand immersion offers a different perspective than the media's portrayal of a country? Explain.
WHAT STUDENTS CAN DO
- Research your town's tour guide, if any, and reflect on how well it encompasses your community's landmarks and traditions. If the guide is lacking or inaccurate, consider going through the process of updating it.
- Explore neighborhoods in close proximity to your home with a different predominant culture than your own. Consider taking steps to immerse yourself in the culture and consider the accuracy of your own preconceived conceptions of that area.
Written by Kevin Roodnauth, PBS News Hour Classroom's intern and senior at Amherst College, and News Hour's Vic Pasquantonio.
Fill out this form to share your thoughts on Classroom’s resources.
