Article Check-in

Lessons from Teachers by Lisa Delpit

First, we will write and reflect individually. Then, we will randomly shuffle
our papers. Somebody else will read your writing to the group. Well have a
conversation after reading.
1. Please write neatly.
2. Please write complete thoughts that speak for themselves write as if
you might not get the chance to explain yourself out loud.
Categories:
See their brilliance: do not teach less content to poor, urban children but
instead, teach more!
Ensure that all children gain access to basic skillsthe conventions and
strategies that are essential to success in American society
Whatever methodology or instructional program is used, demand critical
thinking
Provide the emotional ego strength to challenge racist societal views of the
competence and worthiness of the children and their families
Recognize and build on childrens strengths
Use familiar metaphors, analogies, and experiences from the childrens
world to connect what children already know to school knowledge
Create a sense of family and caring in the service of academic achievement
Monitor and assess childrens needs and then address them with a wealth of
diverse strategies
Honor and respect the childrens home culture
Foster a sense of childrens connection to community to something greater
than themselves

Article Check-in
Lessons from Teachers by Lisa Delpit
Part 1 - Strength:
1. Put a
next to one category that is your strength.
2. Make a list of times in your classroom that you did this well. Give specific examples, lessons, etc.
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3. Whats a piece of advice for someone who asks you to help them improve in this category?
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Part 2 - Growth:
1. Put a
next to one category in which you would like to improve.
2. How do you know that you are not where you want to be with regards to this category?
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3. Try to make a concrete plan for growth. What will your first step be? What kind of resources will
you consult? Who will you talk to? How will you know youre improving?
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