teaching about slavery

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Home : 2001 : December : 13

teaching about slavery - Civil War
By Carolyn

I have not yet gotten to the point this year where I teach about slavery and the Civil War, although I taught it to fifth graders last year. I did not feel comfortable teaching the issues of the Civil War last year, for
the very reason that you describe: the fact that the textbook does speak of slavery of African-American people. I had a class of 50% African-American students, teach in a southern state (SC), and realize that most of my students are descended from slaves. With these kids already thinking that some white people are racist, it is difficult not to give them the feeling that we are pouring

salt into their wounds, so to speak.

One thing I did do to help the situation, I think, was to help the children, both white and black, realize how wrong slavery was. I also focused a great deal on historical heroes who were African-American.

I am sure you will go to your meeting with a lot of preparedness. If your principal is supportive, I am sure the meeting will go well.