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Before writing your letter, you will need to locate a minimum of three scientific resources which explain culture and rites of passage. In addition, you will need to locate resources that explain how the rites of passage surrounding dating, weddings, and marriage differ in one country OTHER than the United States. Although you may use your text as a resource, you must still have three additional resources. You must correctly cite these sources using APA within your letter. In other words, you must have in-text citations within the body of your letter. You must also have a works cited page in APA format attached to your letter. Your letter must be a MINIMUM of 500 words in length. Your letter must include the following: 1. An explanation of the difference between the terms culture and rites of passage 2. Identification of a country other than the United States which will be discussed 3. A detailed explanation of at least one dating, one wedding, and one marriage rite of passage in that country. 4. A discussion of how the rites of passage in the country you picked differ and/or are similar to those practiced in the United States. 5. A discussion of your reaction to the three rites of passage. 6. Put the information in your own words. 7. Proper in-text citations in the body of your letter in APA format from a minimum of three different sources 8. A separate works cited page in APA format attached to your letter with a minimum of three different sources 9. Please note that if you do not provide in-text citations and a works cited page, this is plagiarism and your grade will be a 0. Write in your own voice, use first person, and avoid jargon or trying to “sound smart.” Your letter should sound like one that you would normally write to a friend or relative. Your letter should include all the parts of a letter such as a date, greeting, and closing. Focus on how you can use everyday language to inform your reader of the complex things you are learning about culture and rites of passage in this class. Make sure to cite your resources in the text of your letter (when you paraphrase). Do not use direct quotes. I want your words, not theirs.
Guidelines for Writing the Letter:
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Introduction:
- Begin the letter with a friendly greeting, making it clear that you are writing to a friend, relative, or someone you know well.
- Introduce the topic of the letter, which is a reflection on culture and rites of passage. Mention that you will explain cultural differences regarding dating, weddings, and marriage in Japan as compared to the United States.
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Explain the Difference Between Culture and Rites of Passage:
- Define culture and rites of passage. You should describe culture as a broad term encompassing traditions, behaviors, values, and social norms, and rites of passage as significant events or ceremonies marking transitions in one’s life.
- Provide clear, simple definitions for both terms in everyday language.
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Identification of a Country Other Than the United States:
- Mention the country you’ve chosen to analyze in relation to the rites of passage, which, in this case, is Japan.
- Briefly introduce Japan’s cultural context.
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Detailed Explanation of Rites of Passage (Dating, Weddings, and Marriage):
- Describe dating, wedding, and marriage practices in Japan. Ensure you give a clear and simple explanation of the rituals or traditions involved.
- Dating in Japan: Discuss the more formal, arranged aspect of dating in Japan, like “omiai.”
- Weddings in Japan: Explain the traditional Shinto ceremony and the focus on family in weddings.
- Marriage in Japan: Explain the cultural expectations of marriage, gender roles, and family responsibilities.
- Describe dating, wedding, and marriage practices in Japan. Ensure you give a clear and simple explanation of the rituals or traditions involved.
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Comparison of Rites of Passage in the Chosen Country and the U.S.:
- Compare and contrast Japanese and U.S. practices for each rite of passage (dating, weddings, and marriage).
- Dating: Japanese dating traditions are more formal and family-focused compared to the U.S.
- Weddings: Japanese weddings are more traditional, while U.S. weddings may prioritize individuality.
- Marriage: The roles within marriage are often more traditional in Japan, whereas American couples often have more flexible roles.
- Make the comparison simple and easy to understand by pointing out the key differences and similarities.
- Compare and contrast Japanese and U.S. practices for each rite of passage (dating, weddings, and marriage).
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Personal Reaction to the Rites of Passage:
- Share your own thoughts and feelings about the three rites of passage you discussed.
- Reflect on what surprised you, what you found interesting, or what seemed different from your own culture.
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Citations and In-Text References:
- Use at least three sources to support the information in your letter. These sources should discuss the culture of Japan and its rites of passage (dating, weddings, and marriage).
- Properly cite these sources in-text (using APA format) whenever you refer to information from them.
- Include a Works Cited page at the end of the letter in APA format.
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Conclusion:
- End the letter by summarizing the key points, reiterating your thoughts on how culture influences rites of passage.
- Use a friendly and closing statement like “Take care” or “I look forward to hearing from you.”
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Formatting and Word Count:
- The letter should be 500 words minimum.
- Make sure to include proper formatting such as a greeting, introduction, body paragraphs, and a closing.
- Ensure the letter is written in first person and uses everyday language that’s clear and accessible.
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APA Format for In-Text Citations and Works Cited:
- Correctly format citations in the body of the letter (paraphrased, not quoted directly).
- Ensure the Works Cited page is formatted correctly in APA format, with at least three sources listed.
Example Structure of the Letter:
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Introduction (Greeting and Topic Introduction)
- Greeting: “Dear [Friend’s Name],”
- Introduction of topic: “I wanted to share what I’ve learned about cultural differences in dating, weddings, and marriage between Japan and the U.S.”
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Explain the Difference Between Culture and Rites of Passage
- Define culture and rites of passage, in simple terms.
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Identification of Country: Japan
- Identify Japan and introduce its cultural context in brief.
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Explanation of Dating, Weddings, and Marriage in Japan
- Provide details on how dating, weddings, and marriage are practiced in Japan.
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Comparison Between Japan and the U.S.
- Discuss how Japan’s practices differ from the U.S. practices.
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Personal Reaction
- Reflect on your thoughts about these practices.
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Conclusion (Closing Statement)
- Wrap up the letter with a short summary of your reflections.
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Works Cited Page in APA Format
- Provide APA citations for all the resources used.
Tip: Make sure the letter is written in a conversational, friendly tone and avoid sounding overly academic. This is not an essay but a personal letter, so keep it informal and engaging.