TREASURES IN THE CARGO CRATE

Cordova, Tennessee and the country of Tunisia may be thousands of miles apart, but Betsy Kolznak's second grade class at Harding Academy Cordova Elementary experienced Tunisia's culture right in their classroom! This opportunity was provided by the Memphis in May International Education Program's World Cargo Crate. The crate contained information and artifacts from Memphis in May's honored country of Tunisia. The class learned about Tunisia and its culture from colorful and interesting books and maps. They also discussed the differences between the United States and Tunisia so that they could appreciate the diversity of the two cultures. The crate was then opened and the true exploration began! The children dressed up in authentic Tunisian hats (chechias and tarbouchas) and handcrafted jewelry. Sam Burchett said, "The hat is very comfortable!". They learned about the music and language of Tunisia by listening to a CD and playing traditional instruments. Addisyn Toll said, "The Tunisian nay is like the recorders we use in music class!". They experienced the craftsmanship and artistry of Tunisian mosaics and hand-woven fabrics. They examined the foods and products of Tunisia, including a vial of oil of Jasmine. This learning experience truly brought the sights, smells, and sounds of Tunisia to Harding Academy! Mrs. Kolznak entered the 2010 Blue Cross Blue Shield World Cargo Crate Photo Contest. The photo of Miranda Morgan, Jacob Wong, and Cooper Whitfield was chosen as the 3rd runner-up winner. The class received a certificate and the winning photo is posted on the Memphis in May website: http://www.memphisinmay.org/worldcargoThe school will also be given the opportunity to register early to receive next year's crate.