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A TEDx Talks Video of a New York Teacher Speaking about How to Bridge Cultural Gap in the Classroom

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A TEDx Talks Video of a New York Teacher Speaking about How to Bridge Cultural Gap in the Classroom

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The students believe that their social, cultural, and personal roots vastly differ from their current classroom experiences or school lives. Therefore, in this Tedx Talks video, Manuel Hernandez, an ESL instructor in New York City, an educator, and an author, discusses how multicultural students wanted to learn but were inhibited by how the classroom materials were not relatable to their own cultural experiences. By watching this speech, educators will be able to establish the purpose of culture, assess and construct an inquiring and reflective attitude toward their teaching profession and its usefulness in improving English language abilities; and use elements of culture and identity to learn English.

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Bridging the cultural gap in the classroom | Manuel Hernandez Carmona | TEDxAmoskeagMillyard

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A Worth Reading Website about Culture Impact in the Classroom

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A Worth Reading Website about Culture Impact in the Classroom

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The eSchoolNews website is a credible website that educators can read to learn and understand how culture can impact students' learning ability. An article on this website, entitled "How Does Culture Impact our Ability to Learn?" is an eye opener for us teachers in the classroom to reconsider how we plan and prepare our lessons. Then, in the implementation of our lessons, we need to make sure that visual aids, graphic organizers, sentence starters/frames, and lesson activities are culturally responsive or diverse. According to the study, teachers can progress toward academic equity in their classroom by understanding the impact of culture, adopting a student-first approach, and generating numerous points of interaction with the same subject.

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When educators think about diversity in the classroom, culture may be one of the characteristics that crosses their mind. But as they select their curriculum and develop their lessons, most teachers are not accounting for how culture will impact a student's ability to participate and learn, says Almitra Berry-Jones, Ed.D., nationally recognized speaker, author, and consultant on the topic of culturally and linguistically diverse learners at-risk. In her edWebinar, " Cultural Relevance and Academic Equity in the Age of ESSA," Berry-Jones explained how understanding the impact of culture, adopting a student-first mindset, and creating multiple points of engagement with the same content will help teachers move toward academic equity in their classroom.

First, Berry-Jones discussed culture-the values and beliefs students bring to the classroom. Culture is a social construct, not genetic, and most students have at least three: home, peer, and school. The language and behaviors for each one is different, and for many students, the language at home is so divergent that entering school is like going to a foreign country and speaking a new language. For example, students may come from a home in which children are told to be seen and not heard, so speaking up and participating in class seems wrong to them. Or, what some teachers see as a behavior disorder is just the contrast between the culture at home and at school.

Also, educators need to think about students who don't "speak the language of school." There is a connection between the poverty level a student grows up in, the educational achievement of the students' parents, and language. Poverty often creates a developmental burden that manifests in a word gap and populations of kids who are not ready to learn. More important, there is also a feedback gap because most of these kids' interactions with adults have been negative. The students arrive in kindergarten not understanding the role of the teacher or how to develop a positive relationship with him or her.

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How does culture impact our ability to learn?

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When educators think about diversity in the classroom, culture may be one of the characteristics that crosses their mind. But as they select their curriculum and develop their lessons, most teachers are not accounting for how culture will impact a student's ability to participate and learn, says Almitra Berry-Jones, Ed.D., nationally recognized speaker, author, and consultant on the topic of culturally and linguistically diverse learners at-risk.

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Videos that Celebrate Diversity and Cultures in a Child-friendly Way

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Videos that Celebrate Diversity and Cultures in a Child-friendly Way

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This website complied several videos that are age- appropriate for the early elementary level. There are also ready-to-use resources teachers can use in their lessons. These video resources on this page are helpful for teachers who are starting to teach about diversity to their children. As they begin to notice that everyone may look different, it is essential to instill the importance of celebrating diversity in these young learners. Educators should show the children that everyone is unique and special in their own way. These videos on this website can definitely help students learn more about diversity. I would recommend using these videos as part of lesson presentations, especially in Social Studies subjects, during the cultural month, International Day, or the Asian Heritage month celebration.

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Celebrating diversity is so essential at the Kindergarten level. We've compiled a list of videos that celebrate diversity and different cultures in an age-appropriate way for your classroom!
This article works well with these Simply Kinder resources:
We live in a wonderfully diverse world, and our children must learn about different cultures and ways of life at a young age. It can be challenging to find age-appropriate videos that showcase these differences positively.

We've curated a list of teacher-approved videos that will help your Kindergartener learn all about diversity in a fun and engaging way. From exploring different cultures to celebrating our differences, these videos will get your child excited about embracing the world around them.

What is Diversity?

Diversity is the understanding that every individual is unique, yet we all share so many things in common. This can be seen in many aspects of life, including race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, and ability. When we celebrate diversity, we rejoice that each person has something different to offer.

Why Celebrate Diversity In Kindergarten?

Children in Kindergarten are just starting to learn about the world around them. They are beginning to notice that people are different, which is ok! As teachers, we must celebrate diversity with our students. By doing so, we are teaching them that everyone is unique and special in their own way. We are also teaching.

When we teach our children about diversity at a young age, we lay the foundation for acceptance and inclusion. We are showing them that differences should be embraced, and we might even inspire the next generation of world leaders!

Looking for other diversity resources? Best Picture Books About Diversity For Young Learners

What Are Some Age-Appropriate Videos That Celebrate Diversity?

There are so many beautiful videos out there celebrating diversity in a fun and engaging way! We scoured YouTube for the best videos and consulted with teachers in the Simply Kinder Facebook group. Here are our Teacher approved list of videos about diversity.

So Many Colors, So Many Shapes

We'll start off with a catchy song. "So Many Colors, So Many Shapes" has a powerful message that people come in different colors and shapes yet share the same hearts!

The lyrics are simple and repetitive so that your Kinders will pick it up quickly and will sing along. Use this as a brain break or an introduction to the topic of diversity.

Cultures of the World

This short video introduces children to the concept of culture and cultural identity. Kindergarten students are introduced to five cultures, including American, African, French, Chinese, and Spanish. There is just the right amount of information for this age group. The only downside is that the video only features adults from each culture. It would be nice to see some children. The language is better suited to first-grade students, but I think Kindergarten would get a lot out of this video as well.

Learn Bright offers has a free lesson plan for grades 1-3. You can find it here.

Whoever You Are - Diversity Book Read Aloud

This video is a read-aloud of the fabulous book by Mem Fox. The book takes us on a quick trip around the world, introducing children to different types of people. It does a great job pointing out that we still have much in common despite our differences. It is a lovely book way to celebrate diversity. This video would be great for Kindergarten students but could also work with first-grade students.

Sesame Street: We're Different, We're the Same

This adorable video starts with Sesame Street characters Abby and Elmo, who are on a quest to find what is different and the same. It just so happens that Gordon is reading the perfect book called We're Different, We're the Same. It explains that we may look different, but how in everything essential, we are the same.

For example, our skin can be of different colors. But skin does the same job and works the same for everyone, no matter its color. This is a simple way to celebrate diversity and has a beautiful message.

Sesame Street: Same and Different with Elmo and Abby

Another short video with Abby and Elmo. In this one, the two characters explore the differences between them. The video does a great job of pointing out that while we all have differences, we also have many similarities. Elmo and Abby discover they have a lot in common, and Elmo doesn't have to change his hair color!

This video could lead to some fun diversity math projects. For example, students could create Venn diagrams to show the differences and similarities between themselves and a partner. You might also do some graphing projects.

The World's Family (An Embracing Culture Story)

Another video showcasing some aspects of different cultures around the world. This one is very simple and better suited for Kindergarten. It talks about the ways people say hello and greet each other. What kinds of pets children might have and mentions some celebrations. The video finishes with the powerful message that we may do things differently, but we are the same in many ways. We are all part of the world's family.

Being Different is Beautiful

The message in this sweet animated video is that we are all different, making us beautiful. I particularly like that the message includes a child in a wheelchair and a child with a seeing-eye dog. The video touches on differences in appearance, physical abilities, food, and likes. The final message is that we are all different and unique in many ways. Being different is beautiful, and we can learn a lot from each other every day.

Lights for Gita

This offering comes from the National Film Board of Canada. The video follows Gita as she moves from India to Canada with her family. She misses her old life and everything she used to celebrate at home! She decides to invite her new friends to celebrate Diwali with her, but an ice storm threatens to derail her plans. Gita is sad but eventually sees that she can create new traditions and celebrations in her new home.

This video is a great way to introduce Kindergarten students to the Hindu festival of lights. It does an excellent job of explaining why people might celebrate while also showing the cultural differences. There is a focus on Gita's journey and how she learns to be happy in her new home.

The Sandwich Swap

This is the story of two friends who bring very different sandwiches to school. They have a falling out over their sandwiches. Feelings get hurt and mean words are exchanged. The whole class takes sides over the sandwich debate, and things start to turn ugly. Eventually, peace is restored when the two girls swap sandwiches and discover that both are delicious. It is a lovely story and perfect for Kindergarten. It would be a great starting point for discussing respect and not dismissing something because it is different.

We're All Amazing

A lovely song specially composed for younger children. Imagine a world where we all see each other and ourselves as amazing. The simple lyrics remind children how incredible they really are. The song is easy to pick up, and kids will quickly sing along with the refrain.

The Big Umbrella

This is a read-along, and it is a wonderful story about inclusion. The story is about a big red umbrella that loves to gather everyone in and give shelter to all. It doesn't matter what you look like, what clothes you wear, or even how many legs you have. There is room for everyone under the umbrella. Somehow it manages to stretch and grow, so everyone can fit.

This story would make an excellent starting point for discussing kindness and inclusion. Here is an idea for a classroom display; create a large red umbrella and have the children draw pictures of themselves to place underneath.

Final Thoughts

Diversity is something that should be celebrated in our classrooms. Children need to see themselves and others as unique and special. The videos here do a great job of highlighting diversity and celebrating what makes us different. Your kids will learn to celebrate their differences and those around them, which is an essential lesson for Kindergarten students.

All these videos will help children understand the concept of diversity in an engaging way. We hope they will inspire your students to accept others, celebrate differences, and learn about different cultures. Happy viewing!

Your Turn

Do you have any other videos about diversity to share? We are always looking to expand our list. Why not leave the title in the comments below?

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10 Teacher Approved Diversity Videos for Kindergarten and First Grade

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Celebrating diversity is so essential at the Kindergarten level. We've compiled a list of videos that celebrate diversity and different cultures in an age-appropriate way for your classroom! This article works well with these Simply Kinder resources: We live in a wonderfully diverse world, and our children must learn about different cultures and ways of life at a young age.

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A Collection of Digital Civic Modules Ready-To-Teach Resources in the Classroom

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A Collection of Digital Civic Modules Ready-To-Teach Resources in the Classroom

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This website is full of resources educators can use in their classroom to educate students about the importance of learning and taking civic possibilities even in digital life purposefully. The digital civic toolkits found on this website will help the students, especially the youth who are now starting to recognize, learn more, and explore their identities and communities online. The Toolkit explores various civic possibilities and dilemmas through the five modules focusing on Exploring Community Issues, Investigation, Dialogue, Voice, and Action. These modules are assured to best meet the interests and needs of your students, classroom, and community. The modules were originally created for high school students, however, they can be altered for students in lower grades. Each module includes a topic or discussion starter, numerous activities, and a concluding reflection with broad recommendations. You may need to incorporate additional scaffolding and supports depending on the age and level of your kids. There are links to extra exercises if you want to delve deeper into ideas.

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Participate.

The Digital Civics Toolkit is a collection of resources for educators to support youth to explore, recognize, and take seriously the civic potentials of digital life. The Toolkit draws on the research and work of the The Toolkit explores a range of civic opportunities and dilemmas via 5 modules focused on: Exploring Community Issues, Investigation, Dialogue, Voice, and Action. MacArthur Research Network on Youth and Participatory Politics (YPP).

We invite you to explore the modules and choose the resources that best meet the interests and needs of your students, classroom, and community. The modules were designed for high school students but can be adapted for earlier grades. Each module contains a conversation starter, several activities, and a closing reflection with very broad suggestions. Depending on the age and level of your students, you may need to integrate additional scaffolding and supports. If you would like to dig deeper into concepts, there are links to extension activities. For more information on the ideas in each module, we provide a Teacher Background Information with links to articles, blogs, videos, and further resources.

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Participate. The Digital Civics Toolkit is a collection of resources for educators to support youth to explore, recognize, and take seriously the civic potentials of digital life. The Toolkit draws on the research and work of the The Toolkit explores a range of civic opportunities and dilemmas via 5 modules focused on: Exploring Community Issues, Investigation, Dialogue, Voice, and Action.

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Video Resources Teachers can use to Foster Global and/or Cultural Awareness in the Classroom

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Video Resources Teachers can use to Foster Global and/or Cultural Awareness in the Classroom

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Touchable Earth is a website showcasing videos of kids from around the world that encourage the learning of global citizenship, culture, and appreciation for all people. These videos are brief and wonderfully created, showing children from around the globe teaching other kids about their country and culture. To learn, teachers ad students can watch the videos together as a class to explore each country or have kids explore on their own. Though there are very few teaching supports, teachers can still plan and create their foundations and learning extensions. These short videos or movies could be used in various ways, such as assigning students to research traditional clothing from throughout the world and create a presentation to share with the class. Teachers can also direct children to compare and contrast their lives with another country or culture. Children can also learn more about the geography, culture, language, history, festivals, religion, and other aspects of one of the highlighted nations. The featured countries are China, India, Nepal, Russia, Syria, Mongolia, South Africa, Iraqi Kurdistan, and Romania.

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A Podcast about How to be a Culturally Responsive Teacher in the 21st Century

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A Podcast about How to be a Culturally Responsive Teacher in the 21st Century

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Zaretta Hammond: What is Culturally Responsive Teaching?

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This may seem obvious: Students learn best in environments where they feel a sense of safety and belonging - environments that the science of learning and development has shown open up the brain to learning. But what if children find themselves in spaces, that teacher educator and author Zaretta Hammond calls "inequitable by design?"