To begin the lesson, students will watch Anthony Bourdain's "No Reservations" episode in Beirut to introduce them to the program's context, perspectives, and themes. This lays the groundwork for comparing it with "Fax from Sarajevo" and examining varied storytelling approaches to conflict and cultural resilience. The lesson intends to deepen students' understanding of how these narratives can mold perceptions and empathetic connections, encouraging critical thought about societal issues through interactive and collaborative project-based learning.
Learning goals
Begin with an introduction to Anthony Bourdain in Beirut, orienting students as they watch it for the first time to enhance their contextual understanding. Students will develop empathy and expand their understanding of diverse perspectives by analyzing narratives that depict conflict and cultural resilience, aligning with social justice standards. They will engage with historical contexts and learn to identify and critically evaluate unfair practices and biases present in societal structures. Through collaborative activities and reflective dialogues, students will enhance their ability to express curiosity and relate to others’ lived experiences, fostering a respectful and open-minded exchange of ideas.
Standards
[Social Justice Standards] AC.9-12.19 - I stand up to exclusion, prejudice and discrimination, even when it's not popular or easy or when no one else does.
[Social Justice Standards] DI.9-12.8 - I respectfully express curiosity about the history and lived experiences of others and exchange ideas and beliefs in an open-minded way.
[Social Justice Standards] DI.9-12.9 - I relate to and build connections with other people by showing them empathy, respect and understanding, regardless of our similarities or differences.
[Social Justice Standards] DI.9-12.10 - I understand that diversity includes the impact of unequal power relations on the development of group identities and cultures.
[Social Justice Standards] JU.9-12.12 - I can recognize, describe and distinguish unfairness and injustice at different levels of society.
[Social Justice Standards] JU.9-12.13 - I can explain the short and long-term impact of biased words and behaviors and unjust practices, laws and institutions that limit the rights and freedoms of people based on their identity groups.
Products
Begin the experience by introducing and viewing the episode 'Anthony Bourdain in Beirut' to set the context for subsequent activities. Students will then create a collaborative visual storyboard depicting themes of conflict and cultural resilience from the narratives. They will develop a multimedia presentation contrasting graphic novels and travel documentaries, examining storytelling techniques. In the 'Empathy Cafe,' students will host discussions, sharing reflections and insights. The 'Interactive Timeline' activity will lead to a detailed map showcasing historical events that impact cultural identity in Sarajevo and Beirut. Finally, students will present revised visual storyboards in an exhibition space informed by feedback from the gallery walk.
Launch
Start with a warm-up introduction featuring a brief, engaging overview of Anthony Bourdain's exploration in Beirut to provide context and spark interest. Encourage students to immerse themselves in the documentary's narrative of resilience and cultural complexity. Use an interactive discussion to draw initial connections between Bourdain’s perspective and the graphic storytelling in 'Fax from Sarajevo.' This launch paves the way for collaborative storytelling through the workshop, highlighting the importance of diverse narratives in understanding cultural and social dynamics.
Exhibition
Begin the 'Empathy Cafe' with an introduction and screening of the "Anthony Bourdain in Beirut" episode to set the context for students and attendees. Following the viewing, students share their multimedia presentations and reflections with classmates, teachers, and community guests, fostering discussions around social justice themes highlighted in both narratives. Tables dedicated to various themes provide spaces for discussion, accompanied by cuisine inspired by Sarajevo and Beirut. Attendees engage in guided conversations facilitated by students, exploring cultural resilience and conflict depicted in the narratives, while sensory experiences deepen understanding and empathy.