I think that this story is about culture and power. In this story, one realizes that a person from a different culture or background has to adapt to the culture of power. If he does not do it, the chances to succeed in the the culture of power would be low. The main character did not know that the way of writing and communicating are very important in our society.
This story relates to our class discussions, because we have been learning about the privileges that some groups have over others; and how those privileges affect us. As a person who comes from a different country, I also have had to adapt to the culture of power. It is not easy, but necessary. I believe that we as future teachers will see how students from other cultures struggle to form part of the American society.
Saul, you are correct that it is important to learn the culture of power. Delpit thinks there are ways to help students do this. What do you think Wind-Wolf's teacher could do/have done to facilitate his "acculturation" into the culture of power? What can you do as an educator if Wind-Wolf is your student? Did you get this kind of help?
ReplyDeleteWhen you asked me this question, memories came to my mind. About three years ago, I was learning English in an ESL course at NH. I wanted to learn the language to be able to perform well in the American culture. That was why I pushed myself to take a regular course as well, since my English was improving quickly. I took a geology course, I also took this class because I had never taken a real science class with a lab, and that was something I had to do at one point. Long story short, I had issues reading the book, and understanding what was happening in the class. It was very frustrating. My professor told me that I could answer tests questions and do homework in Spanish, since he knew a bit of the language. In addition to that he gave me a Spanish geology book so that I could understand better the class. My point is, teachers will always find students who struggle with language, reading, culture, behavioral disorders, types of disabilities, etc. I think that it is important to let students express their knowledge or ideas in their ways.
ReplyDeleteWind Wolf had many cultural issues; I believe that he was not a slow learner. He just had too much to learn. If I were Wind Wolf's teacher I would focus on teaching him the most basic things, such as school rules, and also about the American culture. I would also explain to the rest of the kids that Wind Wolf is a bit different because of his culture, and that everyone has to help him to feel comfortable inside and outside of class. It may take a long time to teach Wind Wolf everything, but learning is a process and having the solid basics are very important.