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Case: Why Should I Listen?
As part of my 7th grade Social Studies curriculum, I have to talk about slavery, the civil rights movement, etc. The topic ultimately leads to a discussion of how Whites oppressed Blacks. I try to present these topics in a way that does not suggest any guilt. This year, one of my students had a very bad reaction. When we were talking about the civil rights, John, one of my well-behaved but opinionated students, got up and said that he did not want to listen to this lesson anymore, because all we did was to demonize the White people. Three other students openly agreed with him saying that these topics made them angry. I have to cover these topics because they are a part of my curriculum. Also, I believe in the importance teaching children about these inequalities. However, it seems like the way I teach, which is mainly based on lectures and small group work, is making my White students uncomfortable. What should I do to make sure that my White students do not feel offended by these topics?
Solution: (Rates are posted for this solution!)
When teaching curriculum that is racially sensitive, it is important to set the stage. Prior to discussing these topics students must understand that these issues are a part of our history. Whether we agree or disagree, history cannot be changed or ignored. Students must understand it is these events as well as others that shaped our nation into what it has become today. When teaching a curriculum that is racially sensitive, the teacher must be mindful of the potential reactions of their students. Holding a discussion prior to teaching these topics may be beneficial to both the teacher and students. Mentally preparing students to expect possible feelings of sadness or anger is a normal reaction when learning about these events. By preparing students in advance,feelings of anger or resentment may be lessened. |
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Rating
| The suggested solution is respectful of the individual (student) |
Yes
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| The suggested solution is relevant to the case |
Yes
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| The suggested solution is reasonable (easy) for the teacher to implement |
Yes
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| The suggested solution is likely to solve the problem/issue |
Yes
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| The suggested solution is original |
Yes
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| Comments: I like the idea of 'setting the stage' and talking with the students before jumping right into such a racially sensitive subject. |
| Rated On: October 20, 2014 12:24 am |
| Rated By: Adam Sanchez |
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Rating
| The suggested solution is respectful of the individual (student) |
Yes
|
| The suggested solution is relevant to the case |
Yes
|
| The suggested solution is reasonable (easy) for the teacher to implement |
Yes
|
| The suggested solution is likely to solve the problem/issue |
Yes
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| The suggested solution is original |
Yes
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| Comments: Great idea! |
| Rated On: October 20, 2014 2:23 am |
| Rated By: Tekla Mayotte |
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