Malvern students learn with multicultural literature
Editor’s note: This story was written by Malvern Middle School teacher Claudine James from her experience in the classroom.
The first step in being intentional and incorporating culturally responsive teaching in the classroom was redesigning a classroom library, making sure the literature available for students to read represented not only the cultures found in our community, but the world in general. Each school year, my goal is to have my students embrace the infusion of multicultural literature. I have found one of the best ways to educate my students about Black History during Black History Month is by using books written by or about African Americans, multicultural literature.
Using stories written by young adult authors such as Jason Reynolds and Kwame Alexander, the students are introduced to complex and thought provoking and relevant “stories” in a manner which is easier to comprehend. Other authors such as Rita Williams- Garcia, Jacqueline Woodson and Sharon Flake works are also great texts to use to highlight the African American experience in the past and future.
Additionally, I have many reluctant readers in my classes, that is why I also chose to incorporate the use of graphic novels into my curriculum. Graphic novels are ideal for use with reluctant readers because they offer lots of picture-text support for readers who are struggling (including ELLs.) They engage visual learners and strengthen that skill in non-visual learners, plus they can often be read more quickly than traditional novels, giving readers a sense of self confidence by completing reading a book in a short time frame. John Lewis' March Book Series, a graphic novel, is one of the best resources I have used to teach the themes of Civil Rights, tolerance and African American history.
To highlight the stories of the Little Rock Nine students read Warriors Don’t Cry by Melba Patillo Beals. We read informational texts and a picture book about Loving Versus Virginia and Misty Copeland's Life in Motion not only to highlight biracial issues but also civil rights and to provide students with an inspiring message about overcoming huge obstacles.
For elementary and intermediate level, but can also be used on the secondary level, the picture books written and/or illustrated by Kadir Nelson, not only pro
vide beautiful graphics, but an amazing history of many iconic African Americans, such as Harriet Tubman, Martin Luther King and Rosa Parks.
Introducing multicultural literature to my students during Black History Month highlights tolerance and creates an inclusive classroom community. Subliminally, culturally responsive teaching is introduced. Honestly, I can’t think of a better way in order to highlight Black History Month than by incorporating the use of African American literature.