Ask students to investigate their heritage, then examine IC programming that relates to the corresponding culture. Have students surf through the Ellis Island Tour on the International Channel web site. Discuss the various religious customs your students practice, or have students report to the class about a religion that is new to them. Watch programming on the International Channel from the countries where unfamiliar religions are practiced, and note how religion plays a part in that country's politics, daily life, etc. They can explain lifestyles, cultural differences and language phrasing.
Bilingual students are an excellent resource.
Have students follow the stock market in the newspaper or the Internet in conjunction with watching the daily show. Conclude the exercise with student reports on the performance of their investments. Travel Students watch several different IC programs in various languages. Ask students to compare and contrast what they found most intriguing about the programs. Then have them choose which country they would like to visit or learn more about.