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!) I would speak to my class about the contributions that all races, cultures and genders have made in America and explain that they are all important and have shaped the country. After explaining these things I would then have students pick a scientist, writer or political figure that is not white or African American. By doing this, students will be forced to fine someone that is probably not like them and they can hopefully see what contributions overs have made for our country. I think it would also be beneficial to find out when the multi cultural "months" are and present people that are of those cultures during that time. All of the students would hopefully then have a better appreciation of all races and culture.