By Trina Wilson University of Montana C&I 527 sect. 51 – Fall 2010 Dr. McKenna Correctly Integrate Multicultural Literature

Warnings: Not all cultures are included in this presentation. I tried to chose pictures that I thought might help illustrate the points to remember when choosing multicultural literature for the classroom…forgive me if they are intense or, in your mind, not quite accurate.

Is the book good literature? Check for a strong plot. Make sure that characterization is true to experience.

Is it well developed? Think about development in terms of – Setting – Theme – style

Is the book culturally accurate? The reader should gain a true sense of the culture when reading the book.

Is the book rich in cultural details? Readers should get insight into the subtleties of daily life which enhance the story. Make sure culture is not overgeneralized.

Are cultural issues presented comprehensively? Issues should have enough depth and realism to get a true sense of how culture affects the lives of these people.

Are minorities relevant? Minority characters are there for a reason. The story could not be told just as easily about another cultural group. The involvement of the minority character does not belittle their unique, culturally rooted experience.

Are dialogue and relationships culturally authentic? American History X (1998) Directed by Tony Kaye Pulp Fiction directed by Tarantino

ABCs of Cultural Understanding & Communication Refer to pg. 57 in Vaca, Vaca, & Mraz

A - autobiography Have students write their autobiographies…. Start with early memories of family traditions, religon, education, victories, defeats, etc. (Vaca, Vaca & Mraz, p. 57)

B – Begin interview Teacher interviews parents or family members on neutral ground to discover what eh student’s interests and routines are. Teacher might also share personal experiences when appropriate (Vaca, Vaca & Mraz, 57).

C - chart As a teacher, create a chart that compares & contrasts one’s own life to the life of the family member interviewed (Vaca, Vaca & Mraz, 57).

Recognize & Connect Analyze & recognize differences between teacher and student portions of the chart. Then, make connections to curriculum for student and make it meaningful to him / her ( Vaca, Vaca & Mraz, 57).