My classroom is rich with culturally diverse students some of whom are learning English as a second language. My students are thoughtful, funny and creative thinkers.
To maximize their opportunities for success, my students need to see themselves in the literature we read and study.
Students need to connect to the stories they read so they can engage authentically with the text. Only then can they learn how to love reading, dig deeper and take action to make their world a better place.
My Project
As a 3rd grade teacher, offering multicultural literature is part of my culturally responsive teaching practice. Students need to read stories about characters who reflect themselves and their deep cultural values in order to feel like valued members in a school society. My students will use these materials in literature circle units called "This is Us" and engage in authentic reading, writing, listening and speaking activities that foster deeper understanding and acceptance of oneself and others.
Appreciation of diversity is imperative for all students to succeed in the world today and using literature to explore current issues is one of the most important tools I can use to help them reach their literacy goals.
Students who enjoy reading, read more often and more deeply and are more equipped to handle the literacy demands for future success.
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Ms. Van Ostrand and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
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