CULTURAL ARTS WORKSHOPS FOR TEACHERS 2007
Location: Commack Middle School*
700 Vanderbilt Parkway, Commack
*Special thanks to Journey Program partner Commack UFSD for the use of the school cafeteria space and for custodial assistance during the 5 weekly sessions.
October 17, 2007
Understanding Native American Culture: Past & Present
by Dennis Yerry
Musician, composer and educator of Iroquois decent, Dennis Yerry introduced Native American culture and discussed misconceptions. He focused on the evolution of Native Americans in North Eastern United States through storytelling, music and dance. Participants also made rattles, later used during several spirited dances.
October 24, 2007
Islamic Ceramic Tiles by Haifa Bint-Kadi
An American Muslim of Palestinian heritage, Haifa Bint-Kadi introduced the ancient tradition of Islamic mosaic tile design using original motifs in the creation of vibrant geometric designs. Trained in Italy, she shared cultural information as well as samples of her work that incorporate contemporary Islamic and Byzantine styles.
October 31, 2007
Enhancing the Road to Literacy with Sign Language
by Barbara Aliprantis
With lively anecdotes and true stories from the classroom, Ms. Aliprantis demonstrated the use of sign language, combined with the spoken word, in accelerating the receptive and expressive skills of the "hearing" learners. Animated interaction and group activities left participants with a fresh perspective on communication methods for all ability levels.
November 7, 2007
Taino Petroglyph by Dennisse Gonzalez
A teaching artist of Taino (Indigenous Caribbean) heritage, Dennisse Gonzalez introduced her rich culture that dates back centuries before the arrival of the Europeans. She demonstrated the influence of cave drawings (petroglyphs found in abundance on their home islands), on Taino beliefs and customs. Participants were treated to music on traditional instruments, also making bookmarks and a pendant inspired by petroglyphs.
November 14, 2007
Explore China Through Calligraphy, Silk Dancing and Paper Cutting
by Margaret Yuen
Founder and director of the Red Silk Dancers, Margaret Yuen led participants on a journey of cultural discovery through Chinese calligraphy, ribbon dance and paper cutting. Along the way, she explained the symbolism and historical significance of these activities with ample resource information.
