In Mr. Woodbury’s freshman human geography class, students recently took part in a unique hands-on activity to learn about cultural diffusion—the spread of cultural traits from one society to another. The lesson focused on how something as simple as a tool, like chopsticks, can become part of different cultures over time. To make this concept more engaging, the class held a fun relay race where students used chopsticks to pass tootsie rolls from one end of the room to the other. This playful challenge not only introduced students to the skill of using chopsticks but also helped them understand how cultural practices and objects travel across the world.
The race sparked laughter, teamwork, and a deeper conversation about how different cultural elements—such as food, clothing, and even utensils—move between societies. “It was harder than it looked, but it definitely made me think about how something so every day for some people can be completely new for others,” said one student after the activity. By using chopsticks in a fun, interactive way, the class connected to the idea that cultural diffusion isn’t just about the spread of major ideas but also small, everyday objects that influence how people live.
