Grade 8 English american values and beliefs

American Values and Beliefs (exam review NB NB NB)

​Grade 8 Ms Jill

Introduction

• Values: The principles that are important to individuals and communities, guiding their behavior and decisions.

• Beliefs: The convictions or acceptances that something is true or exists, often without evidence.

Multiple Choice

What is the difference between values and beliefs?

• Values are personal preferences, while beliefs are societal norms.
• Values are subjective, while beliefs are objective.
• Values are principles or standards that guide behavior, while beliefs are acceptance or conviction of truth.
• Values are changeable, while beliefs are fixed.

Introduction

• Significance:

  • Values and beliefs form the backbone of a culture, influencing attitudes, behaviors, and social norms.

  • They are often passed down through generations, contributing to the society's identity.

• Historical Roots:

  • Early settlement, revolution, and constitution formation played significant roles in shaping American values and beliefs.

Core American Values

• Individualism:

  • Emphasis on personal freedom, independence, and self-reliance.

  • Encourages individuals to pursue their own happiness and goals.

• Equality:

  • Belief in equal opportunity and justice for all, regardless of race, gender, or background.

Core American Values continued

• Material Success:

  • Pursuit of wealth, status, and personal achievement is often seen as a reflection of hard work and talent.

• Competition:

  • Encourages innovation, efficiency, and improvement.

  • Seen as a driver of success and progress.

• Progress and Change:

  • Value in advancement, innovation, and embracing change for a better future.

Multiple Choice

Which is NOT an american value?

• equality
• democracy
• individualism
• work life balance

• Immigration and Diversity:

  • Melding of cultures and ideas, contributing to a rich cultural tapestry.

  • Shaped values of tolerance, inclusivity, and opportunity.

• The Frontier and Expansion:

  • Fostered self-reliance, independence, and a spirit of adventure.

  • Expansion westward embodied the belief in endless opportunity and progress.

• Industrialization and Urbanization:

  • Transition from agrarian society to industrial powerhouse influenced values around work, innovation, and material success.

Historical Influences

Religious Beliefs

• Influence of Christianity:

  • Formed moral and social frameworks.

  • Influenced laws, traditions, and social norms.

• Religious Freedom and Pluralism:

  • Core value of respecting diverse religious beliefs.

  • Encourages a society of tolerance and acceptance.

Multiple Choice

What formed a moral a social framework in USA?

• Religion
• Government
• Education
• Technology

Pop Culture and Media

• Influence on shaping modern values and beliefs:

  • Reflects and often amplifies prevailing societal attitudes.

  • Can challenge traditional beliefs and promote new ideas.

• Reflection of societal norms and changes:

  • Movies, TV shows, music, and social media are mirrors to societal changes.

  • Offer a platform for discussion and dissemination of new or evolving values and beliefs.

Open Ended

What is the biggest influence on how values and beliefs are shared and changed in current life?

Activity Introduction

• Pairs will discuss and identify major values and beliefs in american culture.

• How do these values and beliefs shape american culture

Instructions:

• Form pairs start discussing

• write down the major points

• Share your findings with the class in a presentation.