History is the account of what has happened in the past by one or more authors. How can this not be tainted by point of view, perspectives, or biases?! I think it is best to read these texts with that idea in mind. This topic brings to mind the recent textbook debates in Texas. (Read about it in the NY Times.)
So, how are we supposed to teach our students when it is inevitable that, somehow, the information will be shaped by the point of view, perspectives, and biases of the textbook companies and ourselves, as teachers, preparing the lesson content? I know that I will have to be diligent in examining my lessons to make sure that I am presenting the facts and allowing the students to form their own ideas and opinions about the events. I want to create lessons in which students learn to respect differing perspectives of historical events.
I will have students in my classroom who are learning English and whose families have immigrated to this country. It is important that I make sure that I am respecting and honoring the cultures of these students in my lessons. I want to figure out ways to help these students connect with the social studies lessons that I plan. I hope to do so by including parts of their culture in the lessons to help them form a personal connection with the topic.
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