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!) It is important for students to appreciate all ethnicities. Because of this fact, I would simply address all of my students and tell them that they should always remain proud of their race and culture. Explain to them that it is okay to be fascinated with other cultures, and it is okay to want to educate themselves on other cultures, but they should always remember to honor their very own at all times. I also encourage you to continue to include lessons that involve other cultures.