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All grades  Project 1 week

"Poetic Pedagogy: Teaching Through Cultural Roots"

Tricia K
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.9-10.6
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.11-12.9
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.9-10.9
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
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Purpose

This project aims to equip graduate students with the skills to effectively teach and support immigrant high school students in the U.S. by fostering an understanding of their cultural experiences and challenges. Through analyzing Gina Valdés' poem and creating their own, students will deepen their self-awareness and teaching philosophy while engaging in critical reflection on immigration issues. The project encourages students to explore innovative approaches to address complex questions, enhancing their ability to create inclusive and responsive educational environments.

Learning goals

Students will explore the diverse backgrounds of immigrant students in Rhode Island, examining the impact of current political climates and immigration laws on their educational experiences. They will critically analyze these issues through the lens of Gina Valdés' poem, "Where You From," and create their own poems to express personal and cultural identities. By engaging in self-reflection and peer feedback, students will develop a deeper understanding of their role as educators in a multicultural society, enhancing their academic mindset and problem-solving skills.
Standards
  • CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.9-10.6 - Analyze a particular point of view or cultural experience reflected in a work of literature from outside the United States, drawing on a wide reading of world literature.
  • CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.11-12.9 - Analyze seventeenth-, eighteenth-, and nineteenth-century foundational U.S. documents of historical and literary significance (including The Declaration of Independence, the Preamble to the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address) for their themes, purposes, and rhetorical features.
  • CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.9-10.9 - Analyze seminal U.S. documents of historical and literary significance (e.g., Washington's Farewell Address, the Gettysburg Address, Roosevelt's Four Freedoms speech, King's "Letter from Birmingham Jail"), including how they address related themes and concepts.
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.

Products

Throughout the week, students will collaboratively create a multimedia presentation that explores the cultural experiences and challenges faced by immigrant students in Rhode Island. This presentation will include research findings, personal reflections, and creative elements such as visual art or digital storytelling. By the end of the project, each student will compose and share their own "Where You From" poem, drawing inspiration from Gina Valdés' work and their newfound understanding of immigrant narratives.

Launch

Begin the project by reading a segment of Gina Valdés' poem "Where You From" aloud, inviting students to collaboratively sequence the poem's lines. This activity will spark curiosity and discussion about cultural identity and experiences. Follow up with a group reflection on the themes of belonging and identity, encouraging students to share their initial thoughts and connections to the poem. This launch sets the stage for exploring immigrant experiences and developing personal teaching philosophies.

Exhibition

At the end of the week, students will present their "Where You From" poems in a community showcase, inviting local immigrant families, educators, and community leaders to participate. This exhibition will include a gallery walk where attendees can read each poem and engage in dialogue with the students about their insights and reflections. Additionally, students will facilitate small group discussions about the current political climate, immigration laws, and their impact on education, fostering a deeper understanding and connection among participants.