Microlearning Lesson Plan: Why Do We Say “Bless You” When Someone Sneezes?
Lesson 1: Introduction & Fundamentals
Objective: Understand the historical and cultural origins of saying “Bless You” when someone sneezes.
Content:
– Definition: Saying “Bless You” after someone sneezes is a common social custom, widely practiced in Western cultures, believed to offer protection or express good wishes.
– Learning Resources:
– Article: [Why do we say ‘bless you’ when someone sneezes? – NBC New York](www.nbcnewyork.com/news/national-international/why-do-we-say-bless-you-when-we-hear-someone-sneeze/4974655/)
– Video: [Why Do We Say “Bless You” After Sneezing?](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tWYpQKYLTXo)
Key Takeaways:
– The tradition has roots in ancient beliefs about the soul, health, and superstitions.
– Different cultures have unique responses to sneezing.
Activity:
Reflect on your personal experience or family custom regarding saying “Bless You.” How were you introduced to it, and what significance does it hold for you?
Lesson 2: Practical Application & Techniques
Objective: Explore the practical aspects and variations of this custom across different cultures.
Content:
– Learning Resources:
– Article: [On Sneezing in Japan | This Japanese Life](thisjapaneselife.org/2012/02/15/sneezing-in-japan/)
– Video: [Why we don’t say “bless you” when someone sneezing?](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gll_1bF1Vzs)
Key Takeaways:
– Understanding and respecting cultural differences enhances social intelligence and global communication.
– In Japan, there is no customary verbal response to sneezing as it is often considered a private act.
Activity:
Identify and list at least three different languages or cultures and their unique responses to someone sneezing. Share your findings with a peer or in a discussion forum.
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Lesson 3: Advanced Insights & Mastery
Objective: Delve into advanced insights related to shifting perspectives and modern-day relevance of saying “Bless You.”
Content:
– Learning Resources:
– Article: [Why We Say “Bless You” When Someone Sneezes](www.southernliving.com/news/why-we-say-bless-you-after-a-sneeze)
– Video: [Why Do We Say ‘Bless You’ When Someone Sneezes? – The Superstition Series #shorts](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7C2Hvfmn0cQ)
Key Takeaways:
– The tradition persists despite various societal changes and debates about its relevance today.
– Practicing conscious and respectful communication promotes inclusivity and understanding.
Activity:
Contemplate and write a short paragraph discussing whether the phrase “Bless You” remains relevant in today’s society and if it should persist or evolve.
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Assessment Test
1. What is the primary historical reason people began saying “Bless You” when someone sneezed?
– A) To show concern for one’s health
– B) As a friendly greeting
– C) Based on ancient superstitions regarding the soul
– D) To differentiate sneezes from coughs
Answer: C) Based on ancient superstitions regarding the soul
2. Which culture typically does not have a customary verbal response to sneezing?
– A) American
– B) Japanese
– C) German
– D) Indian
Answer: B) Japanese
3. Why might modern society debate the phrase “Bless You”?
– A) It’s universally accepted and requires no debate.
– B) People question its relevance and cultural sensitivity.
– C) Most people have never heard of the phrase.
– D) It signifies religious conversion.
Answer: B) People question its relevance and cultural sensitivity.
4. What is a key takeaway regarding saying “Bless You” in contemporary discussions?
– A) It should be mandatory worldwide.
– B) It holds no importance in any culture.
– C) It promotes conscious and respectful communication.
– D) It should be ignored completely.
Answer: C) It promotes conscious and respectful communication.
Category: Psychology & Human Behavior
