Home | How It Works | Stats Login | Register         Case: I Wish I Were Black! As a teacher of 5th grade students, I try to make sure that my students have a good sense of all the people and cultures that make up this country. Last couple weeks, I paid special attention to the African American people who have made significant contributions to the US. We read a book written by Walter Dean Myers. We have studied scientists, writers, and political figures. Students were very engaged and interested in the content. Yesterday something happened that puzzled me. Three of my White students told me that they wished they were Black. This was not my intention when I planned all my lessons on contributions of African Americans. How should I address this issue? Solution: (Rates are posted for this solution!) This would be a great opportunity for a writing assignment for all students. I wouldn't go directly to the three students, however, I would talk to the class and have them write about their own culture. This is a very touchy subject in fifth grade, however, I think students are mature and old enough to understand that race doesn't change who we are. In addition, I think students could understand that culture and race shape up our character.