My Learning Strategies class is in the midst of reading A Raisin in the Sun. Like my previous classes, they are loving it. They love having their own parts to read, the incorrect grammar, the occasional swear word for emphasis. The opening act includes three confrontational arguments (including a mother slapping her daughter!) and they love to yell at one another with animation while reading.
I love teaching Raisin as much as they love reading it. It works perfectly for group work -- almost every scene involves three actors, so the kids can read aloud in small groups, and answer analysis questions at the end of each section together.
The other day I had a moment of total happiness listening to my students read -- a moment in which suddenly, I saw the characters in the book reflected in my students, and, I hope, they saw themselves reflected back.
A group of three girls were deeply engaged in their reading and didn't seem to notice that I was grinning over their shoulders. Without realizing it, the three had perfectly chosen to play the character that matched their personality and temperament (We haven't been reading the book for very long, so the students are not quite familiar yet with each of the characters' personalities and nuances). Shenique, a kind, thoughtful student who is one of the older girls in the classroom, was reading the part of calm, unselfish Ruth, a mother and support system for the Younger family. Chantyrita, an eternally positive smile in my room who is firm about her beliefs and values(and her role as a teen mother), was reading Mama's kind but firm words as the Younger matriarch. Kalbrielle, an outspoken student with a penchant for drama (and an occasional attitude to match) was reading independent Beneatha's rant about personal freedom.
Perfection.
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