Language Arts Strand Project
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Jan 9, 2024
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CULTURAL DIVERSITY
Language Arts Strand Project:
Cultural Diversity
Courtney L. Peyton
School of Education, Liberty University
Author Note
Courtney Peyton
I have no known conflict of interest to disclose.
Correspondence concerning this article should be addressed to Courtney Peyton.
Email: clpeyton@liberty.edu
CULTURAL DIVERSITY
Abstract
This Language Arts Strand Project for third grade students is an immersive exploration of cultural diversity through the lens of nonfiction literature. This project aims to cultivate a deep understanding and appreciation of different cultures by integrating various language arts components. Throughout this project, students will engage in activities that involve listening, talking, reading, writing, viewing, and visually representing. One of the key aspects of this project is the utilization of nonfiction texts. Students will have the opportunity to work with a wide range of books that explore different aspects of cultural diversity. Through guided reading and group discussions, students will develop their skills in answering questions based on nonfiction and fiction texts. They will also practice the valuable skill of comparing books on the same topic, allowing them to gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter. In addition to honing their comprehension skills, students will also focus on developing their critical thinking abilities. They will learn how to formulate opinions and support them with evidence from the texts they have read. Through activities such as persuasive writing and class debates, students will strengthen their ability to articulate their thoughts and develop well-reasoned arguments.
Furthermore, this project will encourage students to analyze and interpret various forms of media
related to cultural diversity. They will learn to determine the main ideas and details conveyed through visual representations such as photographs, videos, and infographics. By engaging with different media sources, students will broaden their perspectives and deepen their understanding of cultural diversity. By combining nonfiction literature with a variety of language arts skills, this
project will provide students with a comprehensive and enriching learning experience. Through active participation and exploration, students will not only enhance their language arts proficiency but also develop a profound respect for cultural diversity.
CULTURAL DIVERSITY
Text Set
Grade Level
3
rd
Grade
State Standards
VA Standards of Learning
Strand: Oral Language
3.1 The student will use effective communication skills in group activities. Strand: Reading
3.3 The student will apply word-analysis skills when reading.
3.4 The student will expand vocabulary when reading.
3.5 The student will read and demonstrate comprehension of fictional text and
poetry.
3.6 The student will continue to read and demonstrate comprehension of nonfiction texts.
a)
Identify the author’s purpose.
b)
Use prior and background knowledge as context for new learning. c)
Preview and use text features. d)
Ask and answer questions about what is read. e)
Draw conclusions based on text. f)
Summarize major points found in nonfiction texts.
g)
Identify the main idea. h)
Identify supporting details. i)
Compare and contrast the characteristics of biographies and autobiographies.
CULTURAL DIVERSITY
j)
Use reading strategies to monitor comprehension throughout the reading process. k) Identify new information gained from reading.
l)
Read with fluency and accuracy.
3.7 The student will demonstrate comprehension of information from a variety of print and electronic resources. Strand Writing:
3.9 Student will write for a variety of purposes.
3.12 The student will use available technology for reading and writing. Objectives
The objective of including these books in the project is to promote cultural diversity, empathy, and understanding among students. By reading books from various genres
that explore different aspects of identity, race, history, and personal experiences, students can:
1. Develop empathy: Reading about diverse characters and their experiences can help students understand and empathize with people from different backgrounds and
cultures.
2. Foster cultural awareness: These books provide opportunities for students to learn
about different cultures, traditions, and historical events, helping them develop a broader perspective and appreciation for diversity.
3. Enhance critical thinking skills: Reading different genres and perspectives encourages students to analyze, question, and evaluate the content, enhancing their
critical thinking abilities.
4. Encourage self-reflection: Books that explore identity and personal experiences can prompt students to reflect on their own identities, values, and beliefs, fostering self-awareness and personal growth.
CULTURAL DIVERSITY
5. Promote discussion and dialogue: Reading these books as a group can facilitate meaningful discussions, allowing students to share their thoughts, perspectives, and insights while promoting open-mindedness and respect for different opinions.
Overall, the objective is to create a learning environment that celebrates diversity, encourages empathy, and fosters a deeper understanding of the world we live in. These books offer valuable opportunities for students to explore different genres, engage with diverse narratives, and develop a greater appreciation for the richness of human experiences.
Children’s Literature/ Reading Materials
1. "It's OK to be Different" - Genre: Autobiography, Author: Sharron Purtill
2. "Let's Talk About Race" - Genre: Realistic Fiction, Author: Julius Lester
3. "Dreamers" - Genre: Narrative Fiction, Author: Yuyi Morales
4. "My Family Divided" - Genre: Memoir, Author: Diane Guerrero, Erica Moroz
5. "Separate Is Never Equal" - Genre: Historical Fiction, Author: Duncan Tonatiyh
6. "Happy in Our Skin" - Genre: Narrative Fiction, Author: Fran Manushkin
7. "We March" - Genre: Narrative Fiction, Author: Shane W. Evans
8. "What Was the Holocaust" - Genre: Nonfiction, Author: Gail Herman
9. "Hidden" - Genre: Historical Fiction, Author: Loic Dauvillier
10. "Amina's Voice" - Genre: Realistic Fiction, Author: Hena Khan
These books cover a wide range of topics related to cultural diversity and will provide
students with a rich and diverse reading experience.
Text Set
1.
“It's OK to be Different.”
Author: Sharon Purtill, Illustrator: Sujata Saha
Published: July 2020, Grade Level: 3rd
Genre: Realistic Fiction Format: Picture Book
Summary: "It's OK to be Different" delivers a powerful message to young readers about embracing individuality and celebrating the unique qualities that make each person special. Whether it's a preference for a certain color or differences in appearance, the book encourages children to choose kindness and appreciate the diversity of individuals.
CULTURAL DIVERSITY
Justification: "It's OK to be Different," will help address several of the Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL) in the areas of Oral Language, Reading, and Writing. Here's how:
Oral Language (Strand: 3.1):
The book can be used as a group activity where students engage in discussions about the message and themes presented. They can share their thoughts, opinions, and personal experiences related to embracing diversity and celebrating individuality. This promotes effective communication skills in a group setting.
Reading (Strand: 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6):
- Word-Analysis Skills: The book's text may include unfamiliar words that students can analyze and decode using their word-analysis skills. This helps expand their vocabulary.
- Comprehension of Fictional Text and Poetry: By reading the book, students will demonstrate comprehension of fictional text and poetry. They can identify the author's purpose, draw conclusions, summarize major points, identify the main idea, and identify supporting details.
- Comprehension of Nonfiction Texts: The book also contains nonfiction elements, addressing SOL objectives such as using prior knowledge, previewing, and using text features, asking, and answering questions, comparing, and contrasting characteristics, and using reading strategies to monitor comprehension.
- Fluency and Accuracy: Reading the book aloud or independently will contribute to developing reading fluency and accuracy.
Comprehension of Information (Strand: 3.7):
The book can serve as a print resource where students demonstrate comprehension by extracting information from the text and discussing it in relation to cultural diversity and individuality.
Writing (Strand: 3.9, 3.12):
Students can write for a variety of purposes based on the book, such as personal reflections on diversity, creating their own stories or poems celebrating differences, or writing responses to specific prompts related to the book's themes. They can also utilize available technology for reading and writing activities, incorporating digital tools to enhance their understanding and expression.
2.
Let’s Talk about Race
Author: Julius Lester, Illustrator: Karen Barbour
Published: 2005, Grade Level: 3rd
Genre: Informational, Format: Picture Book
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