Archive for 'Culture'
Video Learning Series: Ivete Sangalo Posted by Rachel on Apr 10, 2009
Today, to practice listening comprehension, we’re going to take a look at some interviews with Ivete Sangalo, one of Brazil’s biggest pop stars. Ivete sings axé music, a pop-like genre from Bahia. Ivete is from Salvador, and performs there during Carnival every year.
Brazilian Etiquette: Visiting Posted by Rachel on Apr 7, 2009
Today, we’re going to return to the Brazilian etiquette series to learn about manners in Brazil. We’re going to look at visiting, as well as socializing and exchanging gifts. Remember that it’s just as important to be aware of etiquette as it is to learn the language! When invited to a small gathering, arrive a…
Brazilian Profile: Fernando Meirelles Posted by Rachel on Apr 3, 2009
Fernando Meirelles was born on November 5, 1955 in the city of São Paulo. The child of a doctor, he had the opportunity to travel and to be exposed to different cultures. He attended the University of São Paulo and majored in architecture, but began experimenting with film. When he graduated, he joined with friends…
Video Learning Series: Nelson Rodrigues Posted by Rachel on Mar 25, 2009
This week, we’re going to practice listening comprehension by watching a three part interview with one of Brazil’s greatest writers and playwrights, Nelson Rodrigues (1912-1980).
NGO Focus: Afro Reggae Posted by Rachel on Mar 17, 2009
Today we’re going to look at one of Rio de Janeiro’s most successful non-profit organizations. Afro Reggae started as a newspaper in the Vigario Geral favela in Rio, discussing Afro-Brazilian culture and music, like reggae and hip hop. The movement itself was inspired by a police massacre in the favela that left a group of…
Portuguese Video Learning Series: Capoeira Posted by Rachel on Mar 16, 2009
Today on the video learning series, we’re going to take a look at a type of Brazilian dance/martial art form called capoeira, which originated during the colonial period from the African slaves. This documentary originally aired on ESPN Brasil and discusses the development of the dance form, the music and instruments used to accompany the…
Brazilian Etiquette: Table Manners Posted by Rachel on Mar 12, 2009
When learning a language, it’s just as important to learn about the culture so that you can apply your language skills in a respectful way. In this new series, we’re going to look at etiquette in Brazil to learn about basic customs. Today, we’re going to learn about table manners. Do not talk with food…