Compare and Contrast with our Italian Friends

We had three different Skype calls over the past three months with a class in Italy.  Small groups of students took turns sharing and exchanging ideas about the monthly topic.  During November, we shared our favorite foods at school and at home.  We learned that many of them like pasta and pesto sauce.  Many of us didn't know what pesto was!  We both liked clemintines and fruit.  During December, we shared about holiday traditions.  We learned that many of them celebrate similar to us.  But, they make special Christmas cakes or buy them at bakeries.  During January, we shared about our favorite winter activities.  We were surprised that many of them enjoyed shopping.  After talking with their teacher more through email, we learned that many of the Italian parents fear the pollution that's in the air.  The city of Milan recommends that the children and elderly stay indoors when the air quality is poor.  But, the night we Skyped with them, it snowed and they played outside with their teacher.  They made snow angels like we did too!  They were also hoping to try maple syrup on snow, just like Riley shared with them during the Skype call.  This was a wonderful cultural exchange!