REVISION: American Culture

1. Why is the USA called '' a nation of nations '' ?

The United States is often called “a nation of nations” because it was built by
immigrants from all over the world, making it one of the most diverse countries.
From its founding, people from Europe, Africa, Asia, and Latin America have come to
the U.S., bringing unique traditions, languages, and customs. This cultural diversity
has shaped American society, contributing to its economy, arts, and innovation. The
U.S. is seen as a “mosaic” rather than a “melting pot,” meaning that different
cultures coexist while maintaining their unique identities. Unlike many nations with
a single ethnic identity, American identity is based on shared values like democracy
and freedom. This rich diversity makes the U.S. a truly unique and dynamic country.

2. What are major serious problems of immigrants to the USA? How should
such problems be solved?

Immigrants to the USA often face serious challenges such as unemployment, poverty,
racial discrimination, and poor health. Many find it difficult to get jobs due to
language barriers, lack of local work experience, or legal restrictions. Without stable
employment, they may fall into poverty, struggling to afford basic needs like housing
and healthcare. Discrimination based on race or ethnicity also prevents many
immigrants from accessing fair opportunities in education, work, and social services.

To solve these problems, the government and communities must work together.
Providing language courses, job training, and legal support can help immigrants
adapt and find stable jobs. Expanding access to affordable healthcare and enforcing
anti-discrimination laws are also crucial. When immigrants are supported, they can
contribute greatly to the economy and cultural diversity of the U.S.

3. What do you think about a society which is like ....

a. a melting pot

A "melting pot" society blends different cultures, traditions, and identities into one
unified whole. While this concept promotes national unity and shared values, it can
sometimes lead to the loss of unique cultural identities. People are expected to
assimilate, adopting the dominant culture while setting aside their original
traditions. This can create challenges for minority groups who struggle to maintain
their heritage. On the positive side, a melting pot fosters diversity, innovation, and
social harmony by bringing together people from various backgrounds.

b. a mosaic

A society that is like a mosaic values diversity while allowing different cultural
groups to maintain their unique identities, where various ethnic, religious, and
cultural backgrounds coexist while keeping their distinct traditions. This kind of
society promotes tolerance, inclusivity, and respect for differences. It allows
individuals to take pride in their heritage while contributing to the larger community.
However, challenges may arise, such as social divisions or misunderstandings
between groups. To make a mosaic society work, people must engage in open
dialogue, mutual respect, and shared national values to create unity while
celebrating diversity.

Should the US be a melting pot or a mosaic?

The U.S. should embrace the mosaic model rather than the melting pot concept. A
mosaic society allows different cultural, ethnic, and religious groups to maintain
their distinct identities while contributing to a shared national identity. This
approach celebrates diversity rather than forcing assimilation, ensuring that
traditions, languages, and customs from various backgrounds can thrive. While the
melting pot idea suggests that immigrants should fully blend into American culture,
it risks erasing unique cultural heritage and pressuring individuals to
conform. In contrast, a mosaic fosters inclusivity, respect, and multiculturalism,
making society richer and more vibrant. By valuing diversity while encouraging unity
through common values like democracy and freedom, the U.S. can create a stronger
and more harmonious nation.

What are the good a bad points of either of them?

Melting Pot

- Good Points:
 Encourages unity and national identity, helping people feel more American.
 Reduces cultural barriers and promotes social integration.
 Creates a shared sense of belonging, making it easier for immigrants to
adapt.
- Bad Points:
 Can lead to loss of cultural heritage as people are pressured to assimilate.
 May create social tension if some groups feel forced to abandon their
traditions.
 Risks cultural homogenization, making society less diverse.

The “melting pot” idea encourages immigrants to blend into a common national
identity, which promotes unity and helps people feel more American. It reduces
cultural barriers, allowing individuals from different backgrounds to connect more
easily and form a shared sense of belonging. This can help immigrants adapt faster
to their new environment and feel accepted in society. However, the melting pot also
has drawbacks. It may pressure people to abandon their cultural heritage in order to
fit in, leading to a loss of traditions, language, and identity. Some groups may feel
excluded or resentful if they are expected to fully assimilate. In the long term, this
approach risks making society less culturally rich, as differences are blended away
rather than embraced.

Mosaic

- Good Points
 Preserves cultural diversity, allowing people to maintain their traditions and
languages.
 Promotes mutual respect and tolerance among different communities.
  Encourages multiculturalism, enriching society with different perspectives.
- Bad Points:
 Can lead to fragmentation, where different groups remain separate rather
than unified.
 Might create language barriers or social divisions.
 In some cases, it can weaken national identity if there is no common ground.

The “mosaic” model celebrates cultural diversity by allowing individuals to preserve

their traditions, languages, and customs. This promotes mutual respect and
tolerance among different communities and encourages multiculturalism, which
enriches society with a wide range of perspectives, ideas, and values. It creates a
vibrant and dynamic culture where differences are embraced rather than erased.
However, this model also has limitations. It can lead to social fragmentation if
communities remain separate and do not interact much with one another. Language
barriers and limited integration may cause misunderstandings or reduce social
cohesion. In some cases, a strong national identity may be difficult to form if there is
no shared cultural foundation. While diversity is valuable, unity can become a
challenge in a mosaic society.

4. What are minor differences between American English and British

English? Give specific examples.

American English and British English differ in several minor but noticeable ways,
including spelling, vocabulary, pronunciation, and sometimes grammar.

Criterion AmE BrE

Spelling: American  Color  Colour
English tends to  Center  Centre
simplify.  Organize  Organise
 Defense  Defence
Vocabulary: Words  Truck  Lorry
for everyday items  Apartment  Flat
can differ.  Elevator  Lift
 Vacation  Holiday

Pronunciation Americans pronounce the "r" Words where the “r” is often
in words. silent in BrE
Schedule is /skedʒuːl/ Schedule is /ʃedjuːl/
Grammar: AmE  I already ate  I have already
prefers the simple  She just left. eaten
past more.  On the weekend, we  She has just left.
went hiking.  At the weekend, we
 I’ll write you soon. went hiking.
 I’ll write to you
soon.

5. What is the English Only Movement? What are its good and bad points, in
your opinion?

The English-only movement is a political movement that seeks to establish English as

the sole official language of the United States or of any particular city or state within
the U.S. The expression "English-only" is primarily used by opponents of the
movement. Advocates prefer other terms, such as "Official-English Movement."
U.S.ENGLISH, Inc. states that it is "the nation's oldest, largest citizens' action group
dedicated to preserving the unifying role of the English language in the United
States. Founded in 1983 by the late Senator S.I. Hayakawa, an immigrant himself,
U.S. English now has 1.8 million members nationwide.

Potential Good Points

1. National Unity:
Supporters argue that having one official language promotes shared identity
and avoids fragmentation.
2. Cost Savings:
Translating government documents, signs, and ballots into multiple languages
can be expensive. Using only English might reduce public spending.
3. Encourages Integration:
The movement may motivate non-native speakers to learn English, which
could help with jobs, education, and civic participation.

Potential Bad Points

1. Discrimination & Exclusion:

Critics say it can be a form of linguistic discrimination, especially against
immigrants, Native Americans, and others whose first language isn't English.
2. Practical Issues:
Limiting government communication to English only can make services less
accessible, especially in healthcare, legal aid, or voting, where clear
communication is critical.
3. Cultural Suppression:
The movement may be seen as discouraging multilingualism and cultural
diversity, which are often considered strengths of American society.

My Take (Balanced Opinion)

The idea of promoting English fluency as a unifying tool makes sense in a

practical way—it’s important for accessing education, jobs, and public life in the U.S.
However, enforcing English-only policies can go too far, especially when it
prevents people from accessing essential services or erases the rich linguistic
diversity that exists in the country. A better approach might be promoting English
while still respecting and accommodating other languages.

6. What period of the US history is your concern ? Why ?

I’m most concerned with the period of the Civil Rights Movement (1950s–1960s)
because it was a time when the United States was forced to confront deep issues of
racial inequality, segregation, and justice—issues that still affect society today.
This era challenged the idea of who truly gets access to the “American Dream,”
highlighting the gap between American ideals and reality for Black Americans.
Landmark laws like the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of
1965 were major victories, but they didn’t fix everything. The movement laid the
groundwork for today’s conversations around systemic racism, police reform, and
equal rights. Studying this period is important because it helps us understand the
roots of ongoing struggles and reminds us that progress doesn’t happen on its own—
it takes people organizing, protesting, and pushing for meaningful change.

The period that concerns me the most is the American Civil War (1861–1865)
because it was a time when the country was violently divided over fundamental
values—especially slavery, states’ rights, and national unity. This war was not
just a political conflict; it was a moral battle that shaped the future of the nation.
The war resulted in the abolition of slavery through the 13th Amendment, but it
also left behind deep racial and regional divisions. The Reconstruction era that
followed promised justice and equality for formerly enslaved people, but many of
those gains were later rolled back by segregation laws and systemic racism. Even
today, debates over race, equality, and the presence of Confederate symbols in
public spaces show that the wounds from that time have never fully healed.
Understanding the Civil War helps us make sense of many ongoing tensions in
American society, especially those related to race, freedom, and national identity.

7. What were the causes and the effects of the American Civil War?

The American Civil War (1861–1865) was fought between the northern and southern
states. Its two main causes were slavery and states’ rights. The South depended on
slaves for its cotton-based agricultural economy, while the North was more industrial
and increasingly anti-slavery. Abolitionists in the North wanted slavery banned, but
the South believed each state had the right to make its own laws, including keeping
slavery. Many southerners supported secession from the Union. After Abraham
Lincoln, who opposed the spread of slavery, was elected President in 1860, southern
states feared he would abolish slavery. Eleven states seceded and formed the
Confederate States of America, with Jefferson Davis as President and Richmond,
Virginia, as the capital during most of the war.

Differences between North and South are still strong. In the South the Confederate
flag is still often used, and the state flags of Georgia and Mississippi were made to
look similar to it. The state motto is Audemus jura nostra defendere, which is Latin
for 'We dare to defend our rights'. The Civil War helped to end slavery, but long
afterwards Blacks were still being treated badly, and race relations continue to be a
problem. The South was so angry with the Republicans, the party of Lincoln and
Reconstruction, that southerners voted Democratic for a century. The war showed
strong differences between parts of the US, but many people believe that the most
important thing it did was to prove that the US is one country.

8. Give your comment on the three branches of the US government.

The legislative branch is called Congress. It consists of the Senate and the House of
Representatives. It is the responsibility of Congress to propose and pass laws. In the
system of checks and balances, Congress can refuse to approve Presidential
appointments and can override a Presidential veto. Congress is meant to be directly
accountable to the people, with representatives elected by the public. Its role is
crucial because it creates laws that affect every aspect of citizens' lives, from taxes
to civil rights to national security. However, the effectiveness of the Legislative
Branch can sometimes be limited by partisanship, where political division can slow
down decision-making or prevent essential laws from passing.

The executive branch consists of the President, the Vice President, the Cabinet and
the thirteen Departments, and the independent agencies. It's the responsibility of the
executive to enforce laws, The President has the power to veto (reject) any bill (law)
of Congress. He appoints all Supreme Court Justices. This branch is responsible for
enforcing laws passed by Congress, managing foreign relations, and leading the
nation in times of crisis. The President has significant influence, especially in matters
of foreign policy and national security. However, the concentration of power in one
person can raise concerns about executive overreach, where the president might act
beyond their authority or push a partisan agenda without sufficient oversight. The
balance of power with the other branches ensures that no one person holds too much
sway.

The judicial branch consists of the Supreme (highest) Court, eleven Circuit Courts of
Appeals, and ninety-four District Courts. This branch explains and interprets laws
and makes decisions in lawsuits. It has power over the other two branches because it
can declare their laws and actions unconstitutional (against the principles of the
Constitution). However, the lifetime appointments of Supreme Court justices can
raise concerns about the lack of democratic accountability within this branch,
especially when rulings seem to align with particular political ideologies rather than
the will of the people.

Overall, the three branches of the U.S. government are meant to function as a
system of checks and balances, ensuring that power is not concentrated in one
branch. While this structure is designed to prevent any single group from becoming
too dominant, it also means that the government can sometimes be slow or
gridlocked when branches disagree. Despite its imperfections, the structure of the
three branches has allowed for a dynamic system that can adapt to the changing
needs of the country, making it a central part of the U.S. democratic experiment.

9. What are the US President's powers?

The President of the United States holds significant powers as defined by the U.S.
Constitution. As head of the executive branch, the President can approve or veto
bills, issue pardons, and command the military. The President is tasked with
upholding the Constitution, advising Congress on the state of the Union, and
recommending necessary actions. Additionally, the President has the power to make
treaties and appoint ambassadors and other officials with Congress's approval. In
emergencies, the President can convene Congress, adjourn them, and fill vacancies
during Senate recesses. The President also oversees the faithful execution of laws,
commissions officers, and receives foreign ambassadors. These powers ensure the
President plays a central role in governance, while maintaining checks and balances
with Congress.

10. Compare and contrast the US education system with the Vietnamese one
briefly.

In American In Vietnam
Education level - Preschool: 3 to 5 - Preschool is divided
years old into two main
- Elementary school: categories: nursery
5 to 11 or 12 years schools for children
old aged 3 months to 3
- Middle school or years (nhà trẻ) and
junior high: 11 to 13 kindergarten for
or 14 years old children aged 3 to 5
(grades 6-8 or 7-8) years (mẫu giáo)
- High school: 14 to - Elementary school:
18 years old (grades for grades 1 through
9-12) 5 (6 to 11 years old)
- College level: 2 - Lower secondary
years school: grades 6
- University 4 years through 9 (11 to 15
- MA level: 2 years years old)
- Upper secondary
school: grades 10 to
12 (15 to 18 years
old)
- College level: 4
years
- University: 4-5 years
- MA level: 2 years
Teaching skill The way of teaching The way of teaching is
always encourages and based on the principle
motivates students to give that the teachers read,
their own views on all and students note. It
issues and from habits of makes them passive and
thiking and self- control timid. Sterotyped thinking
is formed, so students do
not dare to state their
personal views.
The educational goals Towards the Towards the knowledge
comprehensive that students are required
development of each to learn through grades.
individual, through critical
thinking, contributing
ideas.
The teaching content - A semester consists -
For middle and high
of 5 subjects and school, there are 12
there are about 3-5 subjects divided into
tests each subject. 2 semesters. Each
- Average amount of subject consists of
knowledge 4-6 tests per
- All subjects are semester
considered the same - Heavy and
theoretical amount
of knowledge
- Subjects are divided
into major and mino
11. What is your favorite family pattern? What are its good and bad points?
 Nuclear Family: The nuclear family, traditionally envisioned as a mother,
father, and their children, remains a significant structure, though its form is
evolving.1 This pattern often fosters strong, intimate bonds within the
immediate family unit, providing a sense of stability and security. The close-
knit nature allows for focused attention on child-rearing and shared
experiences. However, this structure can also lead to isolation from broader
familial support, and place considerable pressure on the parental pair. 2
Additionally, conflicts between the parents can heavily impact the entire
family's well-being. The modern nuclear family can also include same sex
couples, broadening the traditional definition.3
 Single-Parent Family: Single-parent families, where one parent raises children,
are increasingly common.4 These families demonstrate remarkable resilience,
often forging exceptionally strong bonds between the parent and children. 5 The
single parent often fosters independence and maturity in their children. 6
However, single parenthood can present significant challenges, including
financial strain and emotional exhaustion.7 The absence of a second parent can
also create a sense of loss for children, and the single parent has to be the sole
provider of all support. The reasons for single parent families are varied, and
include death, divorce, and individual choice.8
 Stepfamily (Blended Family): Stepfamilies, or blended families, emerge from
the merging of two previously separate families, typically through remarriage. 9
This structure offers children the potential for expanded support networks and
diverse perspectives. Blended families can create a rich, multifaceted
environment. However, they also navigate complex relationship dynamics,
including adjusting to new stepparents and stepsiblings.10 Potential conflicts
and feelings of displacement are common, requiring patience and
understanding.11 Success hinges on open communication and a willingness to
adapt to new family norms.12 The adjustment period can be lengthy, and
require high levels of emotional intelligence.13
 Extended Family: Extended families, encompassing relatives beyond the
immediate parents and children, provide a robust support system. 14 This
structure fosters a strong sense of belonging and cultural continuity, with
multiple family members contributing to child-rearing and household
responsibilities. The presence of grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins
offers diverse perspectives and a safety net during challenging times. However,
extended family living can also lead to overcrowding and a lack of privacy.
Differing opinions and potential conflicts among family members can also
create tension.15 The level of support provided, can greatly enrich the lives of
the children involved.
 Grandparent Family: Grandparent families, where grandparents raise their
grandchildren, serve as a vital support system for children who may have
experienced instability.16 Grandparents bring life experience and often provide
a nurturing, stable environment.17 However, they may face financial and health
challenges, and the emotional toll of raising children again can be significant.
The generational gap can also create unique challenges in communication and
understanding. These families often arise from difficult circumstances,
requiring immense strength and dedication from the grandparents.
  Childless Family: Childless families, whether by choice or circumstance, offer a
unique family dynamic. Couples or individuals in these families often enjoy
greater freedom and flexibility, allowing for increased focus on personal and
professional pursuits. They may have more resources for travel, hobbies, and
other enriching experiences. However, they may also face social pressures or
feelings of isolation, particularly in societies that prioritize parenthood. The
choice to not have children, is becoming more socially acceptable. This type of
family structure allows for a very large amount of personal freedom.
 Unconventional Families: Unconventional families encompass a wide range of
structures that deviate from traditional norms, such as polygamous families or
those formed through unique circumstances. These families often cultivate
strong bonds and a deep sense of community, providing unwavering support to
their members. However, they may also face social stigma and legal
challenges, requiring resilience and advocacy. The internal dynamics of these
families can be complex, demanding open communication and a commitment to
understanding diverse needs. These family structures are often the most
misunderstood, by people outside of them.
12. What are the attitudes of American people and of foreigners to the US
media?

The US has the most highly - developed mass media in the world. The internet is
growing stronger and mass media plays an important role in Americans daily life, in
some ways we can say that American depend heavily on US media. It is popular with
everyone, especially young people and social activists. Politicians use the media as a
means of enticing supporters during elections and periods of political activity.
Studies also show that most people use media to get news in different ways. In a free
country like America, people are more interested in politics so they follow the news
and make sure their rights are protected for sure. Meanwhile, influencers and
celebrities use media as a way to bring them to the public, promoting the
consumption of their products. Finally, young people spend more time on leisure
activities and learning on the internet. Listening to music and watching movies or
shows are the most popular activities. Most use the internet 2-3 hours a day for
social media then they gradually become dependent and it is not difficult to see how
bad it has caused. Physical and psychological health problems are the most common
consequences. However, it is difficult and time-consuming to completely eliminate
these negative effects despite the efforts of the family as well as the society.

For foreigners, especially foreign language students, U.S media is a popular and
effective means of learning English. There are differences between British English
and American English, so students look to American media such as newspapers or
newscasts on television to learn grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation correctly. In
addition, there are also some people with good English ability who use U.S media for
its pure function - reading international news.

However, especially in Vietnam, American media is still used more for academic
purposes.

13. What is the most popular of the US media? Why ?

Television is America's most popular medium. Three networks - ABC, CBS and NBC -
dominated the scene for decades until the mass take-up of cable and satellite and the
arrival of the Fox network. Mainstream American TV is slick, fast-moving and awash
with advertising. Audience ratings and advertising revenues spell life or death for
shows; networks may axe lame-ducks after just one season. Television's enduring
popularity in America stems from its potent combination of audio-visual engagement,
widespread accessibility, and mass appeal. The medium's ability to deliver immersive
experiences, from live news and sports to captivating dramas and comedies, fosters
strong emotional connections with viewers. Its convenience, offering readily
available entertainment and information within the home, reinforces its central role
in daily life. Local news broadcasts, in particular, provide invaluable community-
specific content, solidifying viewer loyalty. While streaming services are reshaping
consumption habits, television's established presence, coupled with its effective
advertising platform, ensures its continued prominence in the American media
landscape. The combination of easy access, and captivating content, has allowed it to
retain a large audience.

14. How do American people observe their federal holidays?

The United States recognizes 9 – 10 federal holidays. Many government offices and
some private businesses close on annual federal holidays. If the holiday falls during
the weekend, the government may observe it on a different day. U.S. federal holidays
are observed with a rich tapestry of traditions, providing Americans with both times
off from work and school and significant cultural moments. These holidays, such as
Memorial Day and Independence Day, are often marked by patriotic displays,
including flag ceremonies and parades, fostering national pride and unity. Families
and friends gather for communal celebrations like picnics and barbecues, while
communities host large-scale events such as fireworks displays. Beyond the practical
aspect of a day off, these holidays reinforce national identity and shared values,
offering opportunities for reflection on historical events and national ideals. They
also promote community cohesion through shared celebrations and create a
rhythmic structure within the year, marking seasonal changes or significant
historical events. Individual observances vary, reflecting diverse cultural
backgrounds and personal beliefs, with some choosing to engage in volunteer work
or community service. Ultimately, federal holidays in the U.S. serve as a blend of
national commemoration, social gatherings, and personal leisure, contributing to the
nation's collective memory.

15. Describe ONE (a) holiday/ (b) festival in the US you know well. How
important is it to American people?

Thanksgiving Holiday: Thanksgiving, celebrated on the fourth Thursday of

November, is a uniquely American holiday rooted in historical accounts of the 1621
harvest feast shared between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag Native Americans.
While the historical accuracy of some aspects of the story is debated, the holiday has
evolved into a secular celebration of gratitude and abundance. The central tradition
involves a large family meal, typically featuring roasted turkey, stuffing, mashed
potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. It's a time for families to gather, often
traveling long distances, and express thanks for the blessings in their lives. Many
communities also hold Thanksgiving Day parades, with the Macy's Thanksgiving Day
Parade in New York City being the most famous. Football is also a very common
activity, either at a local high school level, or watching the NFL games that are
broadcast throughout the day.

Importance to American People:

Thanksgiving holds immense importance in American culture. It's considered a

deeply cherished holiday for several reasons:

 Family and Community: It's primarily a time for family and friends to come
together, reinforcing bonds and creating shared memories. In a society that
can often feel fragmented, Thanksgiving provides a dedicated occasion for
connection.
 Gratitude and Reflection: The holiday emphasizes gratitude, encouraging
people to reflect on the positive aspects of their lives. This focus on
thankfulness is seen as a valuable counterpoint to the consumerism that often
dominates other holidays.
 National Tradition: Thanksgiving is a national tradition that transcends
religious and cultural differences. It's a shared experience that unites
Americans, regardless of their backgrounds.
 Cultural Identity: The holiday has become deeply ingrained in American
cultural identity, representing values of community, generosity, and
appreciation.
 Start of Holiday Season: Thanksgiving is also viewed as the unofficial start of
the holiday season, kicking off the period leading up to Christmas and New
Year's. This further contributes to its significance in the American calendar.
In essence, Thanksgiving is more than just a meal; it's a cultural cornerstone that
reinforces important values and strengthens social connections.