We have become not a melting pot but a beautiful mosaic. Different people, different beliefs, different yearnings, different hopes, different dreams.
— Jimmy Carter
Unit Goals
After learning the unit, students are expected
·to explore America as a melting pot as reflected in literature,
·to know Amy Tan as a Chinese-American writer and her major concerns,
·to understand the theme of heritage and identity,
·to learn about other American ethnic group writers and their works,
·to learn some useful words and expressions from the unit, and
·to improve English language skills, communication skills and critical thinking.
Before You Read
1. Understand culture clash.
As you read the story, you will find that the Chinese believe in the importance of family, harmony, humility, and obedience while Americans might be different. Working in groups, add more values to each column. Discuss the significance of these values in each culture and the possible reasons with the members of your group.
2. Read the following quotes and see whether or not you agree to each statement. Discuss with your partner and explain why.
1) When in Rome, do as the Romans do.
2) Everywhere can be the center of the world.
3) America is a melting-pot and a salad bowl.
4) Life is just like a game. Play only to win it.
5) East or West, home is best.
6) Life is largely a matter of luck and fate.
7) Most mothers are martyrs.
8) Easy things are not worth pursuing.
3. Form groups of three or four students. Try to find, on the Internet or in the library, information about Amy Tan and her major literary concerns. Give a presentation on it in ten minutes.
Start to Read