Tuesday, September 4, 2007

Preparing for Session 3

Here are some thoughts on preparing for next week:

Readings:
  • Cortes (2001): This article examines the nature of stereotypes and discusses how one might introduce the concept to children. What is the difference between a stereotype and a generalization? How are stereotypes created?
  • Reese (1997): Although the examples in the reading are a bit outdated, the chapter does a nice job of discussing a number of key topics: background on Native American nations, key authors, stereotypes, problematic texts, teaching ideas, and criteria. Because of the length, we will not review the whole reading in class! Please come to class prepared to share several key ideas or quotes that intrigue you. We'll use your ideas as the basis for discussion.
  • Smith (2005): Cynthia Leitich Smith is one of the authors we will feature next week. This article shares her perspective on critical reviews of her work and includes criteria to consider when choosing literature that portrays Native Americans. We will read Jingle Dancer in class together.
Preparing for literature discussion:
  • Everyone must read "Heart of a Chief" carefully. Take notes on questions you have, passages you enjoy/question, personal reactions, connections to course readings, etc. Bring these to class.
  • Students in the "A group": Write your questioning the text paper, paying close attention to the assignment guidelines. Submit an electronic version in the Angel dropbox by 6 pm the night before class meets. Bring a hard copy to class so that you can refer to it to start discussion!
Blogging:
  • See next post!

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