Watch out kids, we're entering the Contact Zone!
1. At the end of chapter 2, Gaughan says he doesn't know how else to help students learn the power of language than testing it out with peers in the classroom. Are there other appropriate places for that sort of experiential learning?
2. Sometimes I feel like English teachers are asked to do everything. We should teach reading, writing, media literacy, oral language...the list grows while reading this book. What sort of accountability are other teachers writing on? Are there "Reinventing Biology/Social Studies/History: Teaching in the Contact Zone" versions? Do you think all teachers are taking an even responsibility to create "thoughtful, committed citizens" and address social problems in the classroom?
3. What do you think is the best preparation for teaching texts from cultures you are unfamiliar with?
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I had a similar response like your second question to one of the previous readings this semester. Why does it all have to be put on the English teacher's shoulders? In some ways I think that's great that we have the flexibility to expand the meaning of the English classroom. But, yes, I don't see why it should be the only class that is making strides to improve how our subject is taught.
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