
Intercultural
Competence
Intercultural resources for teaching EFL teachers

Introduction-
Explore the concept through visual images
Learning Objectives
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Recognize how language is influenced in dominant and non-dominant cultures
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Identify how language and identity are constructed
Lesson Overview
Language influences people's perceptions. This lesson is about the connection between language and identity. Throughout this lesson, we invite you to consider the power mediated through language, and how does the power influence one's identity.
Task 1
Explore the connection between language and identity through images

Task 2
Recognize how language is influenced in dominant and non-dominant cultures through videos
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Watch this video: Why Do We Say "Asian American" Not "Oriental"? Learn about the "oriental" history and its political implication.
Video via: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ZJUgv_3IMk
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Some people think political correctness is an enemy of free speech that fuels democracy. It also needlessly divided one group from another and promoted social conflict. Furthermore, using “aesthetically challenged” rather than “ugly,” “differently logical“ rather than “wrong” only creates unnecessary confusions. Another thing is that politically correct word in one country may not necessarily be politically correct in another country. For example, some may refer "oriental" to an adjective used in medicine. A person with dark skin from Fiji said that he felt strange when people call him "African American."
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Others insist political correctness is a tool to create a more equitable society by giving voice to previously marginalized groups. For example, using “African American” rather than “black,” “police officer” rather than “policeman,” “visually challenged” rather than “blind.”
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Do you think teaching politically correct words in EFL class is necessary? Please leave your comments below.