ACTION 2.4
Integrate critical consciousness around multiple cultures
We used to think...
Published curricular materials such as curricula, student readers, and read-aloud texts that focus primarily on dominant cultures are sufficient to support all learners
Now we know...
Literacy curriculum and instruction that consistently integrates and represents many cultures positively impacts students in a multitude of ways, including their motivation, engagement, and language acquisition.
Best Practice Strategies
To cultivate a supportive multi-language learning environment:
Teachers
Use cross linguistic strategies to elevate and celebrate a student’s home language along with target language.
Students
Receive opportunities to create connections between their culture, home language, and instructional materials.
Resources
How to write language & culture objectives
TanKHuynh and Dr. Jose Medina/Teaching MLs Podcast
This resources provides teachers with step by step guidance on developing language and culture objectives
Family Pictures Teacher's Guide
Lee & Low Books
This guide to teaching the book: Family Pictures/Cuadros de Familia focuses on providing cultural affirmation and motivation for students to create their own family stories.