One Classroom, Many Worlds: Teaching and Learning in the Cross-Cultural Classroom

by Jacklyn Blake Clayton

Jacklyn Blake Clayton challenges the notion of "tolerance" for cultural differences-a notion that implies resignation, passivity, superiority-and offers instead another challenge-to understand the building blocks of all cultures. This understanding is the keystone that holds together a variety of world views and creates a more solid structure for meaningful interactions between teachers and students. Each chapter of her book looks at an aspect of culture that affects the Deftly combining theory and practice, Clayton incorporates into her book general suggestions for applying concepts to the classroom, plus numerous sections called "Try this!" with specific questions, prompts, or activities to promote inquiry and reflection.

192 pages, Paperback

First published September 10, 2003

Reviews

[Jessie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful book for all teachers, especially those with ELs. An eye-opening read for the classroom.

[Heidi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This highly readable, extensively researched book is one of the best I've read on the subject of language and culture in the classroom.

This topic is tricky to tackle, as it can easily slip into politically charged language and bore or alienate Anglo-American teachers with little cross-cultural experience.

However, Dr. Clayton resists polarizing language and gently calls teachers to consider a number of complex, interrelated sociocultural factors which may affect the students in our classroom.

The subject matter is presented in an engaging way, combining a research-based theoretical framework with personal experiences and stories from real people.

For teachers wanting to understand their own cultural lens and better serve students from other cultures and backgrounds, this book will be of great help.