I. Prepare and plan for the activity Instructions: In this activity, you will get to simulate the experience, in a small way, what life is like for others who are different from you. Select at least 2 of the options from the list below for yourself to undertake, undertake them at home, and report back in a short writing assignment. You're also welcome to come up with your own ideas for simulated experiences. Some of these simulated questions may be more meaningful if you can get someone in your household to participate in them with you. List of possible experiences to undertake: Option 2: Use google translate to ask for & receive directions to the nearest gas station To look up how to ask for directions, in a language you do not speak, how to say: Where is the nearest gas station and can you give me directions? Say this translated question out loud (to yourself or someone in your household) Also, look up how a person might respond to your question (for a gas station near your current residence) in that same language Have someone in your household respond to your question using this translation assistance or if you can't get someone to play along, respond (out loud) to your own question Option 3: Build a tower as high as you can (either alone or with others in your household) using: a. Blindfolded and using tape b. With earplugs in your ears, without speaking, and using paperclips c. While seated at all times and with binder clips d. Without making eye contact with others in your team using cups e. With no functional limitation using 3x5 paper note cards We recommend that you undertake at least one of the a-d options AND the e) option Option 4: Navigating life in a second or other language If you speak and/or read another language at a basic or intermediate level this option could be a good fit. Use Google or another internet search to find medical or school-related information in a language that you only know how to read on a basic or intermediate level (if applicable). Attempt to read and understand them as if your health or your education truly depended on it. II. Undertake the simulated experience Guidelines for a meaningful simulation: Give thoughtful preparation to ensure that you set up the simulation in a way that will move you out of your comfort zone and into your learning zone Set aside at least 20-30 minutes for the simulated experience itself If possible, engage others in the activity Set aside some time to think about the reflection questions and at least jot down some initial notes or thoughts while the experience is fresh in your mind. III. Write a reflection about your experience Instructions: Write about your experience with this simulation in response to the questions below. (1 page minimum-2 pages maximum) Written reflection topic/questions How did you feel when you couldn't express yourself as you normally would? How did you feel when it became difficult to complete basic everyday tasks? What surprised you? Did any part of this exercise make you think differently? How can you relate this to what we've been studying so far about culture?