Tuesday, July 5, 2011

thoughtful discussion

Social Justice - Well, half of the time I want to chime right in and half of the time I sit reflecting on my actions or inactions to situations that I have observed. I think that a lot of the prejudices we carry with us are a result of influences from people that we have come into contact with while growing up. I'm not saying they are the reasons for all of our beliefs (like a cop-out) but an influence on at least some of them. Something someone said, did, or their reaction to a situation influenced our own views in one way or another. To make a change, I think as teachers we should plant seeds. Give students access to both sides of the argument and allow them to later make a decision as to where they stand or what they feel. I don't know. This is usually not a big issue with the little ones. They are often much more accepting than the older students. Why is that I wonder?

3 comments:

  1. I'm not sure. Maybe because they still think very literally as opposed to abstractly as little ones?

    I agree that it is so good to give the students food for thought. Not so much give your direct opinion but share with them possibilities. Good insights, Friend!

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  2. Susan, Thanks for sharing your son's story with us. I reflected more on my journal writing in my classroom this past year. 90% of the kids want to share their stories but sometimes, there isn't time for all of them. That's when I came up with the idea of reading their journals to a partner. If they are going to take the time to write a story, then they need an audience to hear it. I was happy to be an audience for your son.

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  3. Ethel - I think your students will love this! GREAT idea! Colin was so thrilled to hear that I had shared his story with you guys. He was beaming! :-)

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