Date of Award

Spring 1983

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Education

Department

Education

First Advisor

Gene Henderson

Second Advisor

Nancy Polette

Abstract

A multicultural curriculum reflects and is sensitive to the ethnic diversity among the peoples of various cultures. In this type of curriculum ethnic content regarding diverse ethnic groups is incorporated into the area of social studies through the use of children's literature for the fifth grade. Four goals are considered: (1) developing an understanding of cultural diversity within the 1 society, (2) apply thinking and decision making processes to ethnic issues through activities, (3) developing skills needed for participating in different ethnic groups, for resolving conflicts and for taking action to improve current conditions, and (4) develop attitudes, values, and behavior supportive of cultural diversity and ethnic differences, a willing ness to combat racism and prejudice, each student's self concept, and respect for individual differences. The curriculum deals with the American Negro and the Native American Indian. Included in this paper are results of various studies which suggest that racial awareness is formed in a child by the age of three. Several studies are mentioned which attempt to modify such attitudes. A brief review of children ' s books which have had a negative impact on the ethnic groups mentioned is included. Two state curriculum guidelines are reviewed briefly as to their use of children 's literature and the role it plays in the district and state guidelines of the states of California and Pennsylvania respectively . Learning activities which reflect multiethnic learning 9oals include: the use of books of fiction examining 2 different cultures, using open-ended questions which are divergent in nature, presenting problem situations, role playing and dramatization, and songwriting.

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