Building Bridges: Culturally Relevant Teaching with Literature Circles and Multicultural Literature

Authors

Amber Lawson, Michigan State UniversityFollow

Abstract

In this article, the author suggests that teachers can create culturally relevant learning experiences by creating a diverse classroom library, using culturally diverse literature for their read-alouds, and adding literature circles as a routine for literacy instruction. Literature circles around diverse books offer students opportunities to discuss texts and expand their meaning-making and comprehension skills. The article provides readers with a guide, resources, and education research in doing so effectively to support culturally diverse learners’ literacy development through meaningful and authentic approaches.

Author Bio

Amber Lawson is a doctoral student at Michigan State University with an interest in literacy and urban education. She is interested in making foundational literacy culturally responsive and sustaining for culturally diverse primary-grade students. She is also interested in supporting elementary teachers in implementing culturally responsive and sustaining pedagogies to provide culturally diverse students with more equitable education opportunities.

Recommended Citation

Lawson, Amber (2021) "Building Bridges: Culturally Relevant Teaching with Literature Circles and Multicultural Literature," Michigan Reading Journal: Vol. 54: Iss. 1, Article 10.
Available at: https://scholarworks.gvsu.edu/mrj/vol54/iss1/10