A study investigated the English language acquisition of three native Spanish-speaking children in a bilingual preschool, focusing on the spontaneous use of English when play-acting at being superhero figures from popular children's culture. The occurrence of this voice is contrasted with the children's use of Spanish for other types of play and…

This special issue examines multicultural aspects of services provided by agencies concerned with children's mental health. The lead article is titled "Developing Culturally Competent Organizations" by James L. Mason. This article uses the cultural competence model to discuss an organization's self-evaluation and its planning in the…

This information sheet summarizes challenges and strategies for identifying and serving gifted children who are recent immigrants. Both challenges and strategies are identified for linguistic, cultural, economic, attitudinal, sociocultural, peer, cross-cultural, intergenerational, and school system aspects. A total of 28 strategies are offered,…

A collection of materials to help teachers and students learn how the relationship of the Japanese people to their natural surroundings is integral to an understanding of Japanese culture. The materials are organized into the following sections: (1) Introduction: Ura ni wa Ura ga iru (The reverse has its reverse side); Kami-sama no Kuni (Land of…

Because gifted girls so often fail to achieve their potential, they require specialized programming and counseling. Three factors in this longstanding pattern of underachievement and associated issues are: (1) biological (girls lack the innate ability to achieve); (2) environmental (aspects of the environment do not encourage female achievement);…

Developed for secondary students to place political situations in context, this document uses essays, interviews, songs, literature, and prose to present the culture of Haiti and the history of colonialism, neo-colonialism, and struggles for independence. After a historical overview, a chronology provides key dates in Haitian history. Maps of…

An anthology of 30 short poetry and prose selections by and about American Indians tries to show what it is like to be an Indian in today's world. In addition to material by Hap Gilliland, Arthur Chapman, Mayme E. Finley, Jack Fiddler, and excerpts from Christopher Columbus' account to Ferdinand and Isabella, items are included by: Duke Redbird…

The activities in this book focus on teaching about Japan within the context of larger social science units. Several of the lessons can be taught within the context of the humanities and fine arts. The book's 18 classroom activities are organized into three sections. Section 1, "Society and Culture," contains four activities in which…

From 1996-2001, the Early Childhood Research Institute on Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services (CLAS) has worked to support practitioners in increasing their understanding and awareness of the impact of culture and language on their interactions with children and families. This report presents four articles outlining some of the key…

This curriculum was developed to support American Indian high school students in their transition from high school to postsecondary life. It provides a structured process and culturally relevant activities that can be led by either teachers, tribal elders, community members, or paraprofessionals. The curriculum is based on principles such as a…

Studies of U.S. history in middle school usually focus on the British point of view of the growth and development of the United States. This curriculum project aims to foster a bi-national perspective to compare and contrast issues reflecting the influences of Spain and Mexico on the indigenous cultures of both countries, with a specific focus on…

This book presents the story of two teachers, one black and one white, who confronted the boundaries of race, describing their journey through distrust, anger, and fear as they grappled with race in classroom teaching. It explains how the white teacher, guided by her African American mentor, learned to effectively teach African American students.…

Considers the effects of commercialism and the current mania for name brand clothing on the lives of Canada's young Native Americans. Argues that the adoption of assimilationist and mainstream cultural values grows from the Indians' lack of any real political power. Postulates that young Indian women are particularly vulnerable to this tendency.…

In this interview social scientist and professor, Seymour Martin Lipset discusses those aspects of U.S. culture and character that make it unique. Considers a broad range of influences and phenomena, including divine providence, social stratification, the absence of radicalism, and shifting ideological positions. (MJP)

This article discusses the various cultural interpretations of severe disabilities and the role of enculturation in determining family expectations and participation within the special education system. Research-based techniques and ideas are presented to facilitate increased competence with families in which English is not the first language.…