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By Gabrielle Jones
This New Year webquest by Gabrielle Jones includes activities designed to inform students about the history of New Year celebrations and the traditions which are practised today in a variety of cultures.
Warmer
New Year is an exciting time and many cultures celebrate it in a special way. This may include special foods and drinks, parties, religious festivals and other traditions. Answer these questions in pairs or small groups: 1. How is New Year celebrated in your country? 2. Do you know of any similarities or differences in New Year celebrations in other countries? 3. How do you and your family celebrate New Year?
2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
Which countries eat legumes and what do they represent? What do pigs represent in some cultures and where is pork eaten? Which countries eat ring-shaped cakes and why? What is hidden inside the rice pudding eaten in Sweden and Norway at New Year? What will happen to the person who finds it? Which people first made New Years resolutions? What did they promise to do? Whats the most famous symbol of the beginning of the New Year in America? How long has the event taken place? What alternative objects are dropped in other American cities?