American Culture

HISTORY-DEMOGRAPHY-GEOGRAPHY DIZZY Learning More About US History, Demography and Geography

HISTORY-DEMOGRAPHY-GEOGRAPHY DIZZY Learning More About US History, Demography and Geography

You probably already know a lot about the language and customs of the U.S.A. just from watching Hollywood movies, but are you really prepared to do business with an American? In tactical warfare, it pays to know your enemy. We don't mean for you to take this literally, but doing your job would be so much easier if you had a better perspective on who you're dealing with. Since you will be on the phone conversing with American customers, it will be best for you to learn and become more familiar about its history, demography and geography

OBJECTIVES
Upon completion of this module, you will be able to:

- Locate the 50 states in the map. - Identify the different weather conditions and seasons in the US. - Pronounce properly the US States and cities. -Differentiate Filipino Culture from that of the American Culture through the American Trademarks. - Eliminate the use of Filipinoisms in conversations.

History and Government

History and Government

The United States Declaration of Independence is a statement adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, announcing that the thirteen American colonies then at war with Great Britain were no longer a part of the British Empire. The flag of the United States of America consists of 13 equal horizontal stripes of red (top and bottom) alternating with white, with a blue rectangle in the canton bearing 50 small, white, five-pointed stars arranged in nine offset horizontal rows of six stars (top and bottom) alternating with rows of five stars. The 50 stars on the flag represent the 50 U.S. states and the 13 stripes represent the original Thirteen Colonies that rebelled against the British Crown and became the first states in the Union. Nicknames for the flag include the Stars and Stripes, Old Glory, and the Star-Spangled Banner (also the name of the country's official national anthem).

History and Government

The United States of America also referred to as the United States, the USA, the U.S., America, or the States is a federal republic of 50 states located primarily in central North America. The United States proper has land borders with Canada and Mexico, as well as several territorial water boundaries with Canada, Russia and The Bahamas. It is otherwise bounded by the Pacific Ocean, the Bering Sea, the Arctic Ocean, and the Atlantic Ocean. Two of the 50 states, Alaska and Hawaii, are not contiguous with any of the other states. The United States also has a collection of overseas territories and possessions around the world. Each of the 50 states has a high level of local autonomy under the system of federalism.

Demographics

Demographics
Ethnicity and Race Americans, in part due to categories decided by the U.S. government, generally describe themselves as being one of five ethnic groups:
1. 2. 3. 4. White (Caucasian) African American (Black) Hispanic (Latino) Asian American (Chinese American, Indian American, Filipino American, etc.) 5. Native American (American Indian)

Demographics
Religion
As of 2001, the distribution for major religions in the United States was estimated as follows: (52%) (24%) (14%) (3.2%) Protestant Roman Catholic No religious faith (including atheists and agnostics) Others (Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu & Unitarian Universalist

Demographics
Class

In terms of relative wealth, most U.S. residents enjoy a standard of personal economic wealth that is far greater than that known in most of the world. For example, 51 percent of all households have access to a computer and 67.9 percent of U.S. households owned their dwellings in 2002. However, there is also a considerable amount of poverty in the United States with 12.1% of the population living below the official national poverty level.

Class

Happy Campers of the 50 States

As a CSA, it is important that you be equipped with great navigational skills. Not all Americans know their map by heart, but if you encounter one that does, you wouldnt sound so un-American if you know your directions. The United States is comprised of 50 states. In addition to being governed by the United States government, each state has its own state governing system inclusive of state taxes and laws. Each state has a capital city where state representatives gather together to lobby for state law and policy.

Grouping of the States in Regions

States may be grouped in regions; there are endless variations and possible groupings, as most states are not defined by obvious geographic or cultural borders. The Five Regions of the United States are: New England Southeastern Mid-western Southwestern Western

New England (Northeastern)

Connecticut | Delaware | Maine | Maryland | Massachusetts | New Hampshire | New Jersey | New York | Pennsylvania | Rhode Island | Vermont

Climate
This region has a varied climate, with four seasons each year. Winters are cold and summers are hot. The temperature gets colder as you travel north.

Culture
New Englanders are known for their hard work, shrewdness, thrift and ingenuity.

Places of Interest and more Fast Facts

The region contains many of the nations finest colleges, including Harvard, Yale, Brown and Princeton.
The region also has Boston, New York and Philadelphia which has wonderful museums, shopping theaters and the arts. The World Wrestling Federation (WWF) is headquartered in Stanford, CT. New Jersey has the most diners in the world and is sometimes referred to as the diner capital of the world. Hershey, PA is considered the Chocolate Capital of the United States.

The Big Apple is a term coined by musicians meaning to play big time and is the nickname of New York City. New York City is the home of Broadway Musicals, Wall Street (the financial capital of the US), The Empire State Building and many other famous landmarks and tourist attractions.

Southeastern
Alabama | Arkansas | Florida | Georgia |Kentucky | Louisiana | Mississippi | North Carolina | South Carolina | Tennessee | Virginia | West Virginia

Climate
The region is part of the Sun Belt which gives it many climate zones. From temperate, to sub-tropical, to tropical and arid. Since the temperature is mild, a lot of retirees call this region home. Summers are long and hot while winters are short and milder. Hurricanes normally pass by this region from August to November.

Culture
The region is the birthplace of country music. Its cuisine is known by many names, TexMex, Creole and Cajun together with soul food. Coca-Cola and Dr. Pepper started in the South.

Americans of Latin descent are also found here and are concentrated in Miami, Florida and other areas.

Places of Interest and more Fast Facts

The Kentucky Derby is held every year and is one of the most famous horse races in the world. Louisiana is known as the birthplace of American Jazz and is home to a number of jazz bars. The Kennedy Space Center in Florida is a must-see for astronomy fans. The Smoky Mountains National Park can also be found here, between Tennessee and North Carolina and is the countrys most visited park. Orlando, FL attracts more visitors than any other amusement park destination in the United States. Disney World is the largest of its amusement parks) The First Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant owned and operated by Colonel Sanders is located I Corbin, KY. The world famous Mardi Gras is celebrated in New Orleans.

Coca-cola was invented in May 1886 by Dr. John S. Pemberton in Atlanta, Georgia. The name Coca-Cola was suggested by his bookkeeper, Frank Robinson. Coca-Cola was first sold at a soda fountain in Jacobs Pharmacy in Atlanta by Willis Venable. In 1902, while on a hunting expedition in Sharkey County, MS, President Theodore (Teddy) Roosevelt refused to shoot a captured bear. This act resulted in the creation of the world-famous teddybear.

Mid-western
Illinois | Indiana | Iowa | Kansas | Michigan | Minnesota | Missouri | Nebraska | North Dakota | Ohio | South Dakota | Wisconsin

Climate
The Eastern part of this region receives 20 to 40 inches of rain every year. The region is also part of the Tornado Alley which is an area in the US frequented by tornadoes, add to that strong winds and blizzards which are inherent dangers to this region.

Culture
The region is referred to as Americas Heartland. The people are known to be open, friendly and straight-forward but at times unsophisticated and stubborn. Germans, Swedes and Norwegians together with other nationalities settled in this region.
This region has some of the topranking universities in the US including the University of Michigan, Northwestern University and Notre Dame.

Places of Interest and more Fast Facts

Chicago in Illinois is the regions major city. The Sears Tower is located there and is one of the countrys tallest buildings. Other major cities found in this region are: Cleveland, Indianapolis, Detroit and St. Louis. Scenic spots such as Mt. Rushmore (the faces of George Washington Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln are sculpted here)-SD, Black Hills and Mammoth Site are also found in this region. Des Plaines, IL is home to the first Mc Donalds. Pizza Hut restaurants opened its first store in Wichita, KS

The Kellogg Company has made Battle Creek, MI the Cereal Capital of the World. The Kellogg brothers accidentally discovered the process for producing flaked cereal products and sparked the beginning of the dry cereal industry. Hormel Company of Austin, MN marketed the first canned ham in 1926. Hormel introduced Spam in 1937. Candy maker, Frank C. Mars of Minnesota introduced the Milky Way candy bar in 1923. Mars marketed the Snickers bar in 1930 and introduced the 5 cent Three Musketeers bar in 1937. The original Three Musketeers bar contained 3 bars in one wrapper - each with different flavor nougat.

The Southwest

Arizona | New Mexico | Oklahoma | Texas

Climate
Generally, the climate in the region is hot and dry and some cities such as Phoenix in Arizona receive 300 days of sunlight yearly.

Culture
The Mexican culture still dominates the area as it is near the border and was once part of Mexico.

Places of Interest and more Fast Facts

The Grand Canyon, Monument Valley are both located in Arizona. Santa Fe and Taos, NM are famous art centers. The Alamo is located in San Antonio, TX while the Johnson Space Center is located in Houston, TX. Dinosaur tracks have been seen in Oklahoma and have been preserved in the Oklahoma Museum.

The West
Alaska | California | Colorado | Hawaii | Idaho | Montana | Nevada | Oregon | Utah | Washington | Wyoming

Climate
Since the area is mountainous, there are different climates in areas due to their elevation. Alaska is normally cold and wet for the entire year while San Diego, CA is hot and dry. Hawaii is warm, not hot, due to cool ocean winds.

Culture
Native Americans and cowboys frequent the mind when the West is being mentioned. This includes the birth of country music in the area.

Places of Interest and more Fast Facts

The Silicon Valley in CA which is the center of technology in the country is found here. Los Angeles, which is also the center of the Hollywood Film Industry is part of this region. The most beautiful parks are also part of region. Found here are:
Yosemite National Park, CA home of the 2 highest waterfalls in the US Sequoia National Park, CA contains the largest living tree. and the Denali National Park of Alaska, Cities that are interesting to visit are San Francisco (The Golden Gate) and Los Angeles in California, Portland in Oregon, Salt Lake City in Utah and Seattle in Washington. Hawaii and Alaska are natural tourist spots having their own distinct culture. One of every eight US residents lives in California. Nevada is known for its deserts and its legalized gambling hub, Las Vegas. Colorado is the skiing capital of the United States. Idaho comes next as a popular skiing destination.

Hawaii is the most isolated population center on the face of the Earth. Hawaii is 2,390 miles from California; 3,850 miles from Japan; 4,900 miles from China; and 5,280 miles from the Philippines. There are only 12 letters in the Hawaiian alphabet: Vowels : A, E, I, O, U Consonants: H, K, L, M, N, P, W

Winter Storms and Extreme Cold

Hail
Hail is a form of precipitation that falls from the sky as pellets of ice. The pellets can range in size from small pea-sized pellets, to hailstones as large as grapefruits. The formation of hail means there is usually a severe thunderstorm. A severe thunderstorm is the precursor of tornadoes and should be closely monitored.

Freezing Rain
Freezing rain is just rain that falls onto a surface with a temperature below freezing. This causes it to freeze to surfaces, such as trees, cars, roads, forming a coating or glaze of ice. Even small accumulations of ice can cause a significant hazard.

Sleet
Sleet is just raindrops that freeze into ice pellets before reaching the ground. Sleet usually bounces when hitting a surface and does not stick to objects. However, it can accumulate like snow and cause a hazard to motorists.

Blizzard

A blizzard is a longlasting snow storm with very strong winds and intense snowfall.

Frost / Freeze
Frost is white ice crystals that form on a surface, like the ground or leaves of a plant. Frost is created when the air temperature drops below freezing and the water vapor in the air freezes into ice crystals.

What are snowflakes? Snowflakes are made of ice crystals. Each snowflake is six-sided and made of as many as 200 ice crystals. As snow crystals grow, they become heavier and fall toward the ground.

Natural Disasters:
Earthquake Earthquakes are one of the most costly natural hazards faced by the U.S., posing a significant risk to 75 million Americans in 39 states.

Avalanche
Technically, an avalanche is any amount of snow sliding down a mountainside. It can be compared to a landslide, only with snow this time. Another common term for avalanche is snowslide. As an avalanche becomes near the bottom of the slope, it gains power, this can cause even the smallest of snowslides to be a major disaster. Avalanches happen when the snow packed down on the surface cannot support itself with all the weight. When another factor is introduced, such as a persons step, this helps to loosen the snow and an avalanche occurs. Major temperature changes, rapid wind speed, and man-made influences are the main causers of why avalanches occur.

Wildfire
Wildfires are a growing natural hazard in most regions of the Unites States, posing a threat to life and property, particularly where native ecosystems meet developed areas. Because fire is a natural process, fire suppression can lead to more severe fires due to the buildup of vegetation, which created more fuel. In addition, the secondary effects of wildfires, including erosion, landslides , introduction of invasive species, and changes in water quality are often more disastrous than the fire itself.

Dust Devil
Small tornadoes over land that draw up dust and light debris. They are most common in desert areas.

Time Zones and

Daylight Saving Time

Daylight Saving Time

The rising and setting of the sun on the rotating earth determines time zones. From east to west the time becomes one hour earlier as the earth rotates. To determine the time in certain areas, you will have to subtract one hour as you move from the Eastern time zone to the Western time zone.

For example, if it is 9:00 AM in the East, it will be 8:00 AM in Central, 7:00 AM in Mountain, 6:00 AM in the Pacific.
Another example, if it is 5:30 PM in Utah, it will be 7:30 in Pennsylvania. If it is 11:15 PM in Texas, it will be 9:15 PM in California.

Daylight Saving Time

Daylight Saving Time (DST) is a way of getting more light out of the day by advancing clocks by one hour. During Daylight Saving Time, the sun appears to rise one hour later in the morning, when people are usually asleep anyway, and sets one hour later in the evening, seeming to stretch the day longer. The reason DST works is because it saves energy due to less artificial light needed during the evening hours clocks are set one hour back to standard time in fall.

Some trivia: US expect to save 10,000 barrels of oil each day through reduced use of power by business during daylight hours. The phrase Spring forward, fall back will help you easily remember how DST affects the clock. At 2 a.m. on the second Sunday in March, Americans set their clocks forward one hour ahead of standard time (spring forward). They fall back at 2 a.m. on the First Sunday in November by setting our clock back one hour and thus returning to standard time. During the six-and-a-half-month period of Daylight Saving Time, the names of time in each of the time zones in the U.S. change as well. Eastern Standard Time (EST) becomes Eastern Daylight Time (EDT), etc.

Note: Arizona (except some Indian Reservations), Hawaii, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and American Samoa have chosen not to observe Daylight Saving Time. This choice does make sense for the areas closer to the equator because the days are more consistent in length throughout the year.

H
Hawaii

A
Alaska

P
Pacific

M
Mountain

C
Central

E
Eastern

Manila

Standard DST

-18 -18

-17 -16

-16 -15

-15 -14

-14 -13

-13 -12

Manila

Standard DST

2am 2am*

3am 4am

4am 5am

5am 6am

6am 7am

7am 8am

8pm 8pm

Example:
H Standard DST A P M C E Manila

Seasons
Since the United States is located in the Northern Hemisphere, people living there experience the following seasonal changes during the specified timeframes: The year is divided into seasons, or sets of consecutive months that have similar weather patterns and length of days. Since the United States is located in the Northern Hemisphere, people living there experience four kinds of seasons : winter, spring, summer and fall.

Seasons
Winter Spring December to February March to May

Summer Fall / Autumn

June to August September to November

American Holidays
People in every culture celebrate holidays. Although the word "holiday" literally means "holy day," most American holidays are not religious, but commemorative in nature and origin. Because the nation is blessed with rich ethnic heritage it is possible to trace some of the American holidays to diverse cultural sources and traditions, but all holidays have taken on a distinctively American flavor.

The federal government proclaims ten holidays per year. They are as follows:
New Years Day January 1st Martin Luther King Day Official 3rd Monday in January Presidents Day Official 3rd Monday in February Memorial Day Official last Monday in May Independence Day July 4th Labor Day 1st Monday in September Columbus Day Official 2nd Monday in October Veterans Day Official 2nd Monday in November Thanksgiving Fourth Thursday in November Christmas December 25th

Americans have a lot to learn about taking time off. Since most Americans dont get much more than two weeks of paid vacation a year, the legal, or public holidays provide welcome breaks. Most holidays are observed on a Monday in order to give people long weekends, regardless of the day on which the actual event falls.
Federal government offices, including the post office, are always closed on all federal holidays. Schools and businesses close on major holidays like Independence Day and Christmas Day but may not always be closed, for example, on Presidents' Day or Veterans' Day. Federal holidays are observed according to the legislation of individual states. Each state government, not the Federal government decides on which dates these Holidays will fall upon. Each state can agree on the same date that the President has proclaimed, such as Thanksgiving Day. State legislation can also change the date of a holiday for its own special commemoration.

National Holidays
Abraham Lincoln's Birthday February 12 George Washington's Birthday February 22 Arbor Day close to April 22 or on that day Mother's Day Second Sunday in May Flag Day June 14 Father's Day Third Sunday in June

Fun Days
St. Valentine's Day April Fool's Day Halloween February 14 April 1 October 31

Ethnic and Regional Celebrations

Chinese New Year 19 between January 21 & February

Mardi Gras
St. Patrick's Day Cinco De Mayo

February/March
March 17 May 5

Not all North Americans celebrate Christmas so its best to say Happy Holidays! instead.

Americans on Vacation

Americans on Vacation
With the United States being one of the most affluent nations in the world, Americans are able to travel to most parts of the world, and they do. They also travel quite a lot within their own country, especially on long weekend breaks or on trips based around a particular activity, such as golfing, skiing, fishing or even shopping. National parks and other areas of natural beauty are popular destinations.
Americans also enjoy road trips and camping trips, where they can travel in their own cars or RVs, at their own pace and without having to depend on anyone else. Another big draw, especially for families with children, are theme parks, like Walt Disney World in Florida, which Americans invented and specialize in, and which provide entertainment for the whole family.

CULTURE SHOCK. CULTURE CHIC. A Closer Look on US Culture and Lifestyle

Culture
What is American Culture?

Culture is the sum total of all values, beliefs, letters, and traditions of a particular group of people at a particular can be particularly challenging since America is actually a melting pot of several cultures and subcultures. To be politically correct, nothing is absolutely American in the sense that the culture is in a constant state of flux as it constantly take in influences of other cultures especially those near its borders.

Language and Communication

Speaking English is not only about using proper grammar and accent. To use English effectively, you need to understand the culture in which it is spoken. Here are a number of important tips to remember when speaking with an American.

a. General Points to Remember: Most Americans only speak English: While it is true that more and more Americans speak Spanish, most Americans only speak English. Americans have difficulties understanding foreign accents: Many Americans are not used to foreign accents. This requires patience from both of you.

b. Conversation Tips:
Speak about location: Americans love to talk about location. When speaking to a stranger, ask them where they are from and then make a connection with that place. For example: "Oh, I have a friend who studied in Los Angeles. He says it's a beautiful place to live." Most Americans will then willingly talk about their experiences living or visiting that particular city or area. Talk about work: Americans commonly ask "What do you do?" It's not considered impolite (as in some countries) and is a popular topic of discussion between strangers. Talk about sports: Americans love sports! However, they love American sports. When speaking about football, most Americans understand "American Football", not soccer.

Political Correctness: Americans don't like jokes that insult people. Language is age-, race-, and gender-sensitive. Be careful when expressing ideas about race, religion or other sensitive topics: The United States is a multi-cultural society. Especially in the last few years, Americans are trying very hard to be sensitive to other cultures and ideas. Talking about sensitive topics like religion or beliefs, is often avoided in order to be sure not to offend someone of a different belief system. This is often referred to as being "politically correct".

c. Addressing People
Use last names with people you do not know: Address people using their title (Mr., Ms, and Dr) and their last names. Always use "Ms." when addressing women: It is important to use "Ms." when addressing a woman. Only use "Mrs." when the woman has asked you to do so. Many Americans prefer first names: Americans often prefer using first names, even when dealing with people in very different positions. Americans will generally say, "Call me Tom." and then expect you to remain on a first name basis. Americans prefer informal: In general, Americans prefer informal greetings and use first names or nicknames when speaking with colleagues and acquaintances.

The Politically Correct (PC) Philosophy was developed in the late 1980s. Politically correct words were coined to foster an increasing tolerance for the diversity of culture, race, gender, ideology, and lifestyle in the world. However, some PC words were made up for amusement. They are not commonly used because they are longer and more difficult to understand than the words they seek to replace. The following are examples of politically correct terms:

Money Matters & Buying Habits

Money Matters
The current US monetary system is broken down into dollars and cents terminology. There are a number of slang terms for the various dollar bill, the most common one being buck.
1 penny = 1 cent 1 nickel = 5 cents 1 dime = 10 cents 1 quarter = 25 cents Half Dollar = 50 cents 1 dollar = 100 cents

When saying a price out loud, people usually dont say dollar in the amount. So $12.99 would be twelve ninety-nine, and not twelve dollars ninety-nine. If they say the full amount, its twelve dollars and ninety-nine cents.

Buying Habits
On average, most Americans have at least 1 credit card and are carrying some form of large debit balance such as a house or a car. Many Americans will live the majority of their lives paying back loans that have been taken to purchase large ticket items: education, vacations, home, vehicles. Some loans are considered good debt because the item that was purchased will appreciate in value at a greater rate than the payment scheme (i.e. house, property/land). The reality of the situation is that millions of Americans have overextended themselves on credit to try and live a lifestyle, which is beyond their financial means. America offers an individual the opportunity to acquire massive up front purchasing power. When the individual succumbs to the enticement of the purchasing ability, the vicious cycle of bad credit and financial debt ensues.

Taxes
Although shopping in the United States may be considerably less expensive than in other countries, it may come as something of a shock when purchases are totaled, and the total is a lot more than what is said on the price tag. This is because sales tax is not included in the price displayed on the tag; it is added only at the time of purchase.

The amount of sales tax charged varies from state to state, although it averages around eight percent. In some places, people who are not residents of the United States may claim back the tax they have paid on their purchases. A few states do not have sales tax.

American Trademarks

Individualism and Self Reliance

Blow your own horn. If you want a job done right, do it yourself.

Speak for yourself.

God helps those who help themselves. Stand on your own two feet.

The Western World is often described as individualistic marked by the belief in the importance of the individual and the virtue of self-reliance and personal independence. Most Americans leave out of the nest by the time they turn 18. They begin to fend for themselves and just touch base during the holidays, especially Thanksgiving and the Yuletide Season. Those who can take care of themselves, make or repair things and improve their own circumstances generally are admired and respected. Most people believe that it is good for adolescent children and elderly family members to be as self-reliant as possible and to not depend on others

Americans also believe in freedom to express oneself. You can be anybody you want to be in America. Everyone has the right to express his or her individuality emotions and thoughts. They have laws upholding this basic human right that even kids are aware of.

Directness
What you see is what you get. Tell it like it is!
American culture promotes simple frank verbal and written communications. Those who are too indirect are likely to be viewed with suspicion, as if they have something to hide, have nothing to contribute or are lacking in self-confidence. Outside of academic and literary circles, subtlety and sophistication are seldom valued. However, directness must be polite enough to avoid being perceived as excessively blunt and rude.

Egalitarianism
All men are created equal.
This statement from the Declaration of Independence enshrines Americans belief that all people are of equal value according to some philosophical or spiritual standard. They reject the idea that there exists a class of "betters" who have an innate right to high status, privilege, and power. Hofstede's study ranked the United States among the countries with relatively low acceptance of power distance, a measurement of comfort with having an elite controlling a hierarchy. Their tendency to use their boss's first name, raise challenging questions, and expect equal treatment reveals a low power distance value.

Hard Work
Genius is one percent inspiration and ninetynine percent perspiration. Keep your nose to the grindstone and your shoulder to the wheel. The US work ethic is evident in these proverbs. Americans spend an average of 1,900 hours a year at work according to the US Census Bureau. That is twenty more days each year than a quarter century ago and more than any other industrialized nation in the world today. Americans have fewer vacation days and less sick leave than workers in most countries.

Linear Sense of Time

Time is money. Time lost is never regained.
These expressions, popularized by Benjamin Franklin, illustrate two of the most fundamental US values: time consciousness and productivity. America has become one of the world's fastest paced cultures. Even as early as the 1830s, Micheal Chevalier, a French economist, wrote that the "American has an exaggerated estimate of the value of time and is always in a terrible hurry." The tempo of life, and work in the United States has increased exponentially since then due to invention of such time "saving" tools as microwave ovens, cellular phones, faxes, computers and e-mail. Most Americans are punctual. If a movie starts at 8 pm, expect them to be seated 20 minutes prior to that. Crawling in the dark over other moviegoers will definitely cause some complaints. One might even be forbidden to enter the theater until after a suitable time. This sense of time is also seen in fancy or even local dinner reservations at restaurants. A 30-minute delay would push you at the end of a reservation list. However, dining with most Americans at their home is slightly less restraining. The hosts will fuss over their timed meal when a guest does not arrive on time, but one is allowed (or almost expected) a 15-minute grace period, also known as being, fashionably late.

Bias for Action

Don't just stand there - Do something! There is no time like the present. Never put off until tomorrow what you can do today. Americans take pride in quickly taking action in the face of problems or opportunities. There is little time spent on contemplation and reflection. With the rapid pace of life and business in the United States, opportunities are fleeting and dangers are sudden. Managers often respond as if doing something, even if it proves to be a mistake, its better than doing nothing. At least, they reason, mistakes can be corrected but inaction accomplishes nothing. Nike has appealed to Americas bias for action with its slogan, "Just do it!"

Task Orientation
Keep your eye on the ball. Work before pleasure. These expressions highlight Americans high level of task orientation. They prefer to focus on the job at hand, avoiding interruptions and distractions. Socializing and irrelevant discussions are discouraged and are usually postponed until the task is accomplished. Most projects are organized as a series of tasks that are worked on in sequence. Even though Americans have adopted the practice of multi-tasking as part of the computer age, they still feel that they must keep the focus of each task sharp.

Privacy and Self-disclosure

Most Americans tend to be very cautious in sharing personal information, especially their Social Security Numbers (SSNs). This may be attributed to the fact that once you know their SSNs, you already know everything there is to know about them, like their addresses, phone numbers, credit scores, mortgages, loans, total savings in a bank, etc. Self disclosure on the other hand, may be attributed to a lot of physical factors like geography and history or social influences like norms.

Informality
Don't be a stuffed shirt. Let's not stand on ceremony.
These sayings reflect Americans preference for informality in most social and business situations. It is generally believed that informality and casualness help people feel comfortable and that they facilitate cordial but effective communications. To the contrary, formality may be perceived as self-importance, aloofness or lack of personal warmth. Therefore, humor is often used, but titles, protocol, and rituals frequently are dispensed with. Likewise, business interactions tend to be less structured than in many other countries.

Content vs. Context Focus

Don't beat around the bush. Get to the point!
Edward T. Hall, a leading intercultural specialist, has characterized the US style of communications as being very strongly oriented toward content (facts, numbers, dates and precise, explicit meanings). Americans relatively pay less attention to contextual factors such as the situation, status and relationships of the people involved, nonverbal cues, and timing. Wendy's restaurant chain's highly successful 1984 commercial slogan, "Where's the beef?" was borrowed for use in a presidential campaign and is still heard today in conversations to ask for more content.

Optimism and Self Determination

The sky is the limit. Every cloud has a silver lining. It is always darkest before the dawn. Traditionally, Americans have felt as if they live in the land of opportunity with boundless potential. Their seemingly unlimited natural resources plus their steady technological progress and economic growth have supported the belief that anything is possible. Many poor immigrants have prospered in America and have gained social acceptance and recognition in their environment that permits upward mobility.

Pragmatism
I don't care how you get it done-just do it! There are many ways to skin a cat. The proof is in the pudding. These sayings are evidence of Americans pragmatic approach to problems. They value whatever solution "works" regardless of its theoretical or philosophical implications. Outcomes matter more than methods. People who are practical, resourceful, and inventive are admired and rewarded. American psychologists, William James and John Dewey, raised pragmatism to the level of a legitimate philosophy in the late 1800s. It is the foundation of Americans "results driven" approach to planning.

Patriotism/Nationalism
America-Love it or leave it! My country-Right or wrong!
Strong national pride has always been a major characteristic of American politics and public sentiment. But during times of crisis, such as after the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, patriotism surges to become a dominant emotional force. The unique status of the United States as the last remaining superpower lends support to the idea among policy-makers and the public that the USA is somehow better than other counties. This attitude rarely is conscious arrogance. Rather, it is a belief that their policies, values, and virtues have been vindicated by history. There seems to be no viable universal or global political ideology in the Unites States strong enough to moderate nationalism. US citizens tend to be very sensitive to criticism of their country, even if it comes from fellow Americans.

The American Dream

Who says you can't have it all? Life is a game and whoever ends with the most toys wins. Shop 'til you drop.

The American dream is largely defined in terms of material possessions (the house, the cars and the labor saving and entertainment devices). This is the widespread aspiration of Americans to live better than their parents did. Most Americans wants a simple life with enough money to go around. Some of them aspire of traveling across the country in their RVs or even across continents if their lifetime savings can afford it. Some however simply live within their means using their Social Security Checks which the government provides them. Others prefer to live in the mountains, others along the sandy beaches of Florida.

POP Culture

MOVIES AND THEATERS

Movies have been a part of the glitz and glam that have attracted not only Americans, but movie aficionados abroad to the big screen in efforts to live vicariously through the bigger than life actors and actresses. Movies can be held accountable for starting trends, breaking norms, and causing riots. The United States has a thriving theater scene, from the latest shows on Broadway in New York to amateur and professional productions in towns and across the country. Many Broadway shows have touring companies, which bring the big shows to the theaters in many major cities. These touring plays are of the same quality as the Broadway shows, although the big stars dont always go on tour. If a play is successful and popular enough, there may also be extended run in Los Angeles or Chicago, but New York remains the center of the theater world.

TELEVISION
Television has had a similar effect that movies have brought to the common American family. From providing catch phrases to water cooler banter, television has played a huge part in shaping Americas culture.

Just like Homer Simpson, watching TV has become one of the most popular national pastimes. Originally, there were only three national television networks, which broadcast around the country through local affiliates. There are more networks now, but the original three ABC, NBC, and CBS, or the Bog Three remain the most powerful and the most viewed. These are all commercial networks that earn their money from advertising. Because of the commercial nature of American television, the Nielsen Ratings are crucial (Nielsen Rating: the rating system that television broadcasters use to find out how many households are watching a particular program). Any show that doesnt perform well in the ratings is almost immediately dropped.

MUSIC
Music has long been a personal form of expression. Within the last 75 years, America has taken music and commercialized and publicized this form of mass media in efforts to sell records, merchandise, and to an extent a lifestyle.

SPORTS
With the United States being such a large and diverse country, there are pastimes and leisure activities to suit everyone. However, sports for both spectators and participants are a major part of most peoples lives. Among the most popular of spectator sports are three that are almost unique to the United States baseball, football, and basketball.

Baseball
Previously termed as Americas Favorite Pastime, baseball has become one of the nations favorite ways to spend a Saturday afternoon. With vivid descriptions of popcorn and crackerjacks, lazy sun filled days at the baseball stadium, baseball has been a staple sport in just about every All-American boy and girl.

Football
The game known as football in the United States is not at all like the game known as football in most other parts of the world. Its played by two teams of eleven players, most of them very large men, wearing protective equipment that makes them look even bigger. Football is played by organized teams in schools, usually starting in junior high school and high school, where being on a sports team gives a kid a higher social status. College football is a popular spectator sport and a huge source of income for colleges and universities, due to sponsorship deals and TV broadcasting revenues. Professional football is played by the teams of the National Football League (NFL) - boasting one of the largest televised events, the Super Bowl, and is the pinnacle of what has been termed Americas new National Pastime.

Basketball
The National Basketball Association (NBA) is by far the most famous sport played around the world. Created by Canadian Dr. James Naismith, basketball has been a well-loved sporting event since he created it with his 13 original rules. Today, with names like Michael Jordan, Karl Malone, Larry Bird and many more, NBA created a brand that has become household staple in most American homes, if not the world.

CURIOSITY STRIKES THE STARS & STRIPES. Useful Factoids and Tidbits on Different US Niceties

1st Line : Callers Name 2nd Line : Street Address, Unit or Apt. 3rd Line : City, State Abbrev. Zip Code (or Zip + 4) 4th Line : Area Code, Telephone Number

Residential and Business Addresses

Zip Codes are allocated geographically from the East coast toward the Pacific. Zip+4 is allocated by the Post Office to identify the actual route and delivery instructions. It is used by mass-mailers like credit card companies, the Social Security Administration, and the Internal Revenue Administration.

Telephone Numbers
U.S. telephone numbers contain 10 digits, beginning with an AREA CODE, regardless of where they are calling and from what type of telephone they are using. The AREA CODE is the 3-digit number in parenthesis, and is not dialed if you are in the same area. Area codes beginning with 800, 888 and 877 denote toll free numbers, where there is no charge to the person making the call. Due to increasing technology and population, new area codes are added frequently, so it is extremely critical that you verify the entire number when speaking with callers.

Postal Abbreviations
Many U.S. addresses are abbreviated. These are some of the most common ones you are likely to come across.

Apartment Avenue Boulevard Branch Bridge Building Center Circle Compound Court Creek

Apt. Ave. Blvd. Br. Brdg. Bldg. Ctr. Cir. Cmpd. Ct. Crk.

Height Junction Jct. Lane Lake Mountain Parkway Pkwy. Place Plaza Point Road Route

Ht. Ln. Lk. Mt. Pl. Plz. Pt. Rd. Rte.

Postal Abbreviations
Crescent Drive Extension Floor Fort Freeway Gardens Grove Highway Cres. Dr. Ext. Fl. Ft. Fwy. Gdns. Grv. Hwy. Rural Route Square Stream Street Terrace Trail Trailer Suite RR

Sq. Strm.
St. Terr. Trl. Trlr. Ste.

A Alpha B Bravo C Charlie D Delta E Echo F Foxtrot G Golf H Hotel I India J Juliet K Kilo L Lima M Mike

N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

November Oscar Papa Quebec Romeo Sierra Tango Uniform Victor Whisky X-Ray Yankee Zulu

THE ODD FLIP SHAKE Battling Filipinoisms and the Common Errors in English

Over the Phone

Can I speak with...? May I speak with . May I ask what is your name? May I ask for your name? May I ask your name? May I have your name? It's for free. It's free. Come again? Pardon me? Do you mind waiting? Response: No, not at all. Yes, I'll wait. No, I don't mind at all. For a while. Please hold./Just a moment. I'll go ahead. Goodbye./See you tomorrow.

Incorrect yet Everyday Sentences

No parking on both sides. No parking on either side. I am taking up Law. I am majoring in Law. Pass by my office before you go. Drop by my office before you go. I commuted going here. It was a long commute by car going here. I was late because of traffic. I was late because of heavy traffic. Im connected with ACS. Im working for ACS. Im with ACS. Go over here! Come over here! Fetch me at work. Pick me up at work. Fall in line. Stand in line. Condolence. My condolences.

Redundancies
Tuition fee Toll fee Free gift If, in case Not unless Irregardless The moral lesson is... Tuition or enrollment fee Toll or Road fee Gift If / In case Unless Regardless The moral of the story is... The lesson of the story is... This is regarding about... This is regarding... This is about... 8 a.m. in the morning 8 a.m. / 8 in the morning A pleasant, good morning A good morning A pleasant morning The reason why is because The reason is My shirt is color blue. My shirt is blue. I rate my comm skills with I rate my comm skills a '7' a number '7'. John starts with a letter 'J'. John starts with a 'J'.

Transliteration
Open/Close the light. Turn on/off the light. Go down the car. Get off the car. Please provide to me your number. Please provide your number. Look for me Ask for me

Taglish and Adapted Words

batch canteen soft drink cotton buds brown out Aircon bottomless C.R. / Comfort Room officemates ref rubber shoes take-out captain ball coupon bond class pantry / cafeteria soda cotton swabs black out air conditioner/ AC / air-conditioning system refillable restroom, washroom, toilet co-workers, colleagues fridge, refrigerator sneakers to-go team captain bond paper

Wait, theres MORE!

Overused Fillers
Actually Do not use this word as meaningless sentence filler. Actually means in fact or really. It is used for emphasis or clarification, especially to express something that is not expected. Many people think hes a foreigner because of his Caucasian features but actually, hes a Filipino. (used for emphasis)

Basically as in the case of actually, do not overuse this expression. Its proper use is to give a simplified explanation of something more complicated. Basically, this software is used for monitoring expenses. (its basic purpose is to monitor expenses)

Incorrectly Used and Invented Words

Tuck out Salvaged Untuck Assassinated

Senatoriable/Presidentiable Senatorial/ Presidential candidate Onion-skinned Thin-skinned