Literature, Life-Writing, and Identity

CONTENTS OF CURRICULUM UNIT 17.02.01

  1. Unit Guide
  1. Introduction
  2. Rationale
  3. Background
  4. Conceptualizing Disability
  5. Unit Highlights and Novels
  6. Teaching Strategies and Activities
  7. Conclusion
  8. Resources
  9. Bibliography
  10. Appendix
  11. Notes

Identity of Persons with Disabilities: Looking at People and Characters in Novels and Media

Toni F. Aliskowitz

Published September 2017

Tools for this Unit:

Conclusion

I began my career in public education in 1993. It was suggested that we include a personal philosophy of teaching in our interview portfolio. Twenty-four years later, I find my words still relevant, especially with regard to the goals of this unit. I said: ‘As our world continues to become more diverse through advancements in technology and communication, teachers in the twenty-first century will be faced with ever increasing challenges. Students will need to be prepared to become productive members of society in which they will be asked to interact with people from a variety of backgrounds and socio-economic levels. I believe the function of public education should include teaching students to accept responsibility for their actions, encourage creative problem solving and critical thinking, while honing their decision-making skills in preparation for their adult roles in society.’

Learning about identity, the way it is shaped and how to appreciate and accept others aligns with the philosophy I stated so long ago, and will allow it to grow with the identities of all the students this unit serves.

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