US Road Trip
Category
Culture Subjects
This cultural studies course takes you on a road trip through parts of the USA. On this journey, we will explore the history of the USA and the stark contrasts that characterise the country – from the opulent, modern consumer society and the rapid development of the major cities to the magnificent, unspoilt natural landscapes and the areas where history is allowed to live on.
We strive for cultural encounters where students meet other young people they can mirror themselves in.
Academic programmes
In our lessons, we will be exploring preconceptions about American culture, watching informative documentaries and carrying out projects based on US history and the Sustainable Development Goals. The projects are intended to help inform others and share the new knowledge we gain along the way.
The pupils will learn about the various cities we’ll be travelling through. They’ll also help to decide on the final itinerary based on their own research and budget planning.
Before travelling, the goal is for students to have knowledge/insight into the following:
The Wild West, the fate of the indigenous peoples, the California Gold Rush, 9/11, American national identity, the diversity of the American landscape and American school culture.
THE JOURNEY ITSELF
West
San Francisco – School visit – Yosemite National Park – Los Angeles
East
New York, school visits, Washington, Savannah and Florida.
ECONOMY
Approximate personal contribution: 11,500 kr.
Pocket money: 1000-2000 kr.
VISA
To enter the United States, you need an ESTA visa.
VACCINATIONS
A valid tetanus shot.
DURATION
Depending on flight tickets 12-13 days.
SAFETY
Before departure, parents/guardians must sign a parental consent form allowing the travelling educators to travel with their child and provide their child's medical care should this become necessary.
Passport - must be valid for at least 6 months after travelling.
AFTER THE JOURNEY
After travelling, students work on their self-selected projects to present at the family day.
In addition, we evaluate the trip, highlights and what could have been different? Expectations compared to reality, etc.
REQUIREMENTS FOR STUDENTS
Pupils should be curious, enthusiastic and ready to embark on a different kind of journey, where each day brings new experiences and a variety of places to stay. They should be open to asking questions, and be critical and inquisitive.
The trip also requires pupils to be able to “live out of their rucksack”, as we are often on the move and do not stay in one place for any length of time. It is therefore essential that luggage is packed in a soft bag, which may be in our cars.