Do you agree? Do you disagree? Do you have something to add?
Chapter 3 of the textbook is on culturally responsive teaching in today's diverse classrooms. As someone who is a first-generation American, whose parentage is Irish, English, German, and Czech, and who has lived in a broad variety of countries and environments, being culturally responsive, for me, is not a new concept, neither is working with diverse learners. Last year I had the following variety in a single classroom: a Ukrainian, a Turkish/Swiss, a Ugandan, and an Israeli/Peruvian. It was absolutely delightful and made for a rich and varied environment for everyone - and watching the Ugandan attempt the Cossack dance, or the Israeli/Peruvian taste Ugandan food led to memorable experiences. My question is: we live in the USA. Every country has a unique culture and heritage however, I believe that the value of the American culture and its heritage are both being hotly debated at the moment.
How does one balance culturally responsive and respectful instruction with an understanding, respect, and pride for our own country? The text discusses adapting questioning types to the kinds of questions familiar with students - which is something I certainly do every day for students regardless of many backgrounds, since, I suggest, that everyone learns differently. But how much responsibility does a teacher have to help a student become familiar with the modes of learning expected in this country, especially if the student is on track to attend an American University?
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