Dong Article

Dong's article is relative to our reading of Copper Sun and Esperanza Rising because it provides examples of teachers implementing multiculteral literature in the classroom. This article gave strong examples of teachers learning and growing from their students; it seemed to be effective in the classroom for the students and the teacher to switch roles. When teachers give their students time to research, collaborate with other students, and use creativity, everyone involved comes out with greater understanding. Esperanza Rising is a great choice for this because it provides insight from a young girl in Mexico, who in order to survive, had to come to America. We learn about her culture, family, language, economic status, etc. This is a big opportunity to encourage students to learn more about Mexico. As a side note, I believe a lot of teens can get a lot out of this story simply because there is a lot of debate about border affairs between America and Mexico. Hopefully students could understand that some Mexican families do not always have a choice; that they are individuals who deserve freedom as well. The classroom is a great arena to influence students about this issue.

Dong shows us that a lot can be gained in the classroom if teachers aren't afraid to bridge the "multicultural gap." Students won't always be able to place themselves in the position of Esperanza. But if students are challenged to research, and to identify with the characters on a personal level, then the class can break some ground. Esperanza Rising opens up avenues to learn about language, culture, religion, society, economy and family experiences within the Mexican community. Copper Sun has the ability to do this as well. I feel that Copper Sun and Esperanza Rising are historical eye-opening novels that students will find interest in. Esperanza Rising and Copper Sun speak about minorities and where they are coming from. Twilight and Harry Potter are more fictional novels that aren't exactly intellectually stirring. Both are great reads and do engage the imagination (which is always good), but do not give room to break into discussion about a different culture if taught in an American classroom.