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Objective: Write a short scene in two different languages.
Materials: Something to write with (voice to text, pen/pencil and paper, or other tools), space to perform.
Curriculum Connections: (Click Here)
Note to Teachers: Inviting students’ home languages into the classroom and treating this knowledge as a strength is an important part of culturally responsive teaching (Student Achievement Division, 2013). Be sure to create an environment where these strengths will be valued and not the basis for the exclusion of some students.
Directions:
Many of us have had experiences with being misunderstood or not understood at all!
Write a scene of your own with two characters who speak different languages and who do not understand each other.
If you know how to speak another language, you may write in that language.
If you only speak English, write both in English, but perform one in gibberish.
If you are fluent in a sign language, you can sign your performance.
Photocopy or print two copies of students’ writing.
Have students form groups of two and learn each other’s scenes.
Invite students to present their scenes in front of the class.
References
Student Achievement Division. (2013, November). Culturally Responsive Pedagogy: Towards Equity and Inclusivity in Ontario Schools. Capacity Building Series. Toronto, ON: Ministry of Education. Retrieved from http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/ literacynumeracy/inspire/research/cbs_responsivepedagogy.pdf