This month we look at embracing diversity in classrooms from multiple perspectives. The following are books that encourage educators to expand their practice and consider a variety of different viewpoints in their teaching.
Whole-class teaching: minilessons and more
A lot has been written about with regards to small group and individual instruction. This book asks a different question: how can teachers reach varying learning styles and needs with whole-group instruction? Filled with practical examples, the first part of this book focuses on teacher modeling and the second looks at deconstructing mini-lessons and curriculum planning.
Questions & answers: gender identity in schools
Written by the Public Health Agency of Canada, this companion document to Canada’s Guidelines for Sexual Health Education is intended to provide detailed information and resources for professionals working in health promotion and sexual health education. Focusing on commonly asked questions about gender identity in school environments, the goal of the document is to support youth dealing with issues of gender identity.
Inequalities in the teaching profession: a global perspective
How do educators experience diversity in their careers? Highlighting the inequalities that exist in the teaching profession, this compilation of essays explores the possibilities of an inclusive profession. This volume also looks at how various influences like gender, ethnicity and social class shape the experience of teachers from a global perspective.
Authors Harry and Klinger study the social reproduction of inequalities in the education system. Investigating the racialization of disability, this book looks at evidence of bias for students characterized as minorities on the basis of their ethnicity, language and socio-economic background. Using the voices of students, family and school personnel, this book showcases the human elements at play in complicated social processes.
Combined grades: strategies to reach a range of learners in kindergarten to grade 6
Multi-grade classrooms are becoming the norm in Canadian schools. This resource published by the Ontario Ministry of Education provides in-depth unit and lesson planning considerations for literacy and math instruction in combined grades. Additional strategies to address parent questions are also considered.
Inclusion: effective practices for all students
This book considers the inclusion of students with special needs from a research, specialist and student perspective. Organized in three sections, part one explores the foundations of successful inclusion while part two offers strategies for meeting the needs of students with specific special needs. The last part of the book goes over effective practices for all students such as using technology to support inclusion, collaboration, differentiated instruction and culturally responsive classroom management.
Identity safe classrooms: places to belong and learn
The authors explore child-centered teaching with a focus on how students’ diverse social identities are assets in the classroom. The use of reflective exercises and real-life examples help to balance theory and practice. Striving for a whole class, whole child model of education this book considers teaching for social, emotional and cognitive development
Reaching and teaching students in poverty: strategies for erasing the opportunity gap
The author focuses on the difficulties teachers have in changing their beliefs and behaviours toward students from low-income backgrounds. Examining decades of research on social class, the author deconstructs myths and educational practices that negatively influence the achievement of students. Using an Equity Literacy framework, the author strives for transformative education which values and respects students of all backgrounds.
Girls in science: a framework for action
The goal of this book is to promote gender equity, in particular in science education. Equitable teaching for students of ethnic minorities, special needs and English language learners are also addressed in this volume. Using the Triad Framework for Equitable Science Teaching, the book outlines goals from three perspectives: students, teachers and science. It’s easy to read either cover-to-cover or in sections which feature short essays and vignettes written by educators.
Educating for diversity and social justice
The book highlights the personal stories of educators in 3 schools in Australia committed to social change and thoughtfully working with students from diverse backgrounds. Using key frameworks to examine the complexities of marginalization, the book promotes an emancipatory vision of education.
Handbook of differentiated instruction using the multiple intelligences : lesson plans and more
This book uses Gardner’s Multiple Intelligences as a strategy for differentiation in the classroom. The author provides practical resources for preparing the classroom as well as useful strategies for differentiating instruction, assessment and lessons in various subject areas.
In addition, here are some curriculum-specific resources that offer ideas and activities that speak to honouring diversity in class rooms:
Multicultural mathematics: interdisciplinary, cooperative-learning activities
Trends in Art Education from Diverse Cultures
Story Drama in the Special Needs Classrooom
Practical Ideas That Really Work for Students Who Are Gifted
Physical Activities in the Wheelchair and out: An Illustrated Guide to Personalizing Participation
Life Skills Activities For Secondary Students with Special Needs