"Who is to say that robbing a people of its language is less violent than war?" -Ray Gwyn Smith
This quote is the inspiration for the first writing prompt of the year. I ask students to reflect on its implications, the questions it raises for them, and their stance on Smith's position. After giving them five minutes or so of silent writing time, I ask them to share. Somehow, every year, I tend to forget that students aren't eager to share on the FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL. It comes as a surprise to me when the room is dead silent. I have to remind myself that I am returning to my classroom with the end of year relationships and discussions still lingering in the back of my mind, last spring's exhuberance and passionate claims haunting me. I have to remind myself, "Don't worry, we'll get there."
A few courageous students volunteered responses about the connection between language and identity and the role violence can play in destroying or defending one's language. I managed to eek out a few more responses when I encouraged students to make nominations. I figured a student was more likely to speak if the "river otter" (a stuffed beanie baby- my "spirit animal") was in their hands. More students participated this way, but it was far from perfect system. Many voices still went unheard.
I wonder about this fine line between "forcing" students to share versus only hearing the perspectives from the regular student volunteers. Teachers- any ideas or practices that you recommend?
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