Books and strategies for culturally responsive pedagogy
Date
2011-04-19
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Abstract
Abstract
The purpose of this project is to develop a multicultural literature (MCL) handbook as a resource for teachers in British Columbia‟s K-3 primary program in language and literacy. In this project I reviewed professional literature based on culturally responsive pedagogy (CRP) and multicultural literature (MCL) in the classroom and its implications for teaching language and literacy at the primary level. In particular, I critically examine Charles Taylor‟s views of multiculturalism and determine how Taylor‟s work may be applied to the teaching of primary language and literacy. I examine a culturally responsive teaching framework (Gay, 2002) and consider the strengths and challenges of Charles Taylor‟s (1994) work. The reasons why Taylor‟s work influences a framework for culturally responsive pedagogy in the classroom is also analysed.
I examine eight picture books and offer differentiated lesson plans. The CRP acknowledges the importance of differentiated instruction that provides instruction for exceptional, at risk and diverse learners. CRP creates a responsive environment through effective literacy instruction where learners‟ strengths rather than their deficits are emphasized (Primeaux, 2000).
These differentiated lessons allow students to access multiple modes of learning to aid students in achieving success with the curriculum. Students are able to interpret text with varying meaning as influenced by social and cultural context. The underlying philosophy of differentiated instruction is responsive instruction where teachers become proficient in understanding their students as individuals (Tomlinson, 2003).
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culturally responsive pedagogy