Global Perspectives

Only in the U.S.A: American culture of Thanksgiving day

Introduction: As writing instructors in UWRF’s English Language Transition (ELT) Program one of our missions is to involve English learning students in campus activities while strengthening their knowledge of English. We could think of no better way to do this than to have them publish an article in the Student Voice. What you are about to read is the final product of several sessions of brainstorming and writing followed by consultations with native speakers including some from the TESOL program and the Student Voice. -- Kiki Augustin (ESL 211 Intermediate Writing) and Alex Hatheway (MODL 310 Advanced Composition)

In America, Thanksgiving Day is in November. On this day almost all American family are together and then having a special dinner. I had experienced this day one year ago, through this experience I know two things which are traditional food and how I feel about Thanksgiving.

A first, I learned about traditional food. When I participated in Thanksgiving dinner, they had turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, pumpkin and pecan pie. It was my first time to eat pecan pie. It was a little bit too sweet, but it was really good dessert. I also learned each family has a different way of cooking, even though they use the same ingredients. It was interesting for me.

Second, I could feel thankful and happy. I think Thanksgiving is an awesome day, because almost all families are together on this day. In Japan, we do not have such a day so I feel this day is a good opportunity to have a conversation with family. 

Overall, I learned two things about Thanksgiving which are they have special meals and they usually celebrate this day with family. I think this day is an awesome day so I want to join this day again.