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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!) Being a social studies teacher of 5th graders myself, I have to admit that I've heard similar remarks from my students. Students at this age are so young and easily influenced by others. Hearing how influential these historical figures were and portraying their glorifying moments probably made the students idolize them just as they would idolize the hottest football player or country music singer of the time. I think it is important to talk with these students and explain to them that their enthusiasm for these historical figures are great but that they do not need to change the color of their skin to be just as great. I feel as if you should show the students other historical figures from a variety of backgrounds that have made similar contributions to the U.S. Students could even do a research project on a historical figure from their background so they may be inspired to do big things by staying true to themselves. |
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