The society we live in is multicultural and multilingual. I often see my students struggling to bridge the differences between and among themselves. Differences in ways of thinking, living, believing, and conducting oneself can lead to conflict and friction. Children need to internalize the strength which is deeply imbedded in this pluralism. These differences can serve as a dividing mechanism unless we are taught to embrace them. Understanding the underlying flexibility in these differences will foster tolerance.
To begin the process we need to discuss with children how members of a family can be alike and different. They can live near or apart, have different life styles, share some values and disagree on others. This process of comparison needs to be continued in the classroom. As a class, we will be learning how we are alike and how we are different in the context of a larger extended family. The traditional family as it has historically been defined is changing; families are taking on many different configurations, and children are forming different patterns of relationships. For the purpose of this unit, family will be defined as the people with whom we live and care for and those who care for us. Once these patterns have been established and nurtured, students can begin the process of connecting local, state, national, and international communities. The family level of awareness becomes the foundation for the conceptualization of a community extending beyond our immediate borders.
Basic concepts of community teach children to view the interconnections and interdependence among the cultures of the world today. Youth today need to be prepared with skills and attitudes that will allow them to live productively with other people whose backgrounds are different from theirs. They are growing up in a world of shrinking resources, a world that shares common medical, social, and environmental problems and would all benefit from seeking solutions collaboratively. Before we can communicate, we must learn each other's language.
Literature, reflecting cultural diversity, allows children to understand, cross- cultural concepts and has the additional advantage of teaching a community of learners how to share, reflect, and understand diversity. The classroom becomes a laboratory. Communities of young people can become involved with organizations that deal with issues such as pollution, environment, and peacemaking. The basic concept of community continues beyond the classroom and provides structure for future patterns of life.