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Reading PK-3 > Strategies > Rich Library: Diversity

Rich Library: Diversity

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Overview

Multicultural and diverse books are critical for supporting all students. Having books and other reading materials in the classroom that reflect the diverse experiences of all students allows each reader to connect with and see themselves in what they read. Diverse content also exposes students to perspectives that may be different from them, expanding their Background Knowledge and cultural competence. This strategy is one that supports the practice of culturally responsive teaching and is meant to be used with other strategies that also allow representation of all learners in the curriculum.

Use It in the Classroom

Learn how these elementary teachers conducted an audit of their classroom libraries to create a collection of diverse, representative texts. By providing rich choices that are mirrors and windows into other cultures, students are able to develop a greater sense of their own identities and widen their viewpoints.

  • Providing diverse literature in the classroom deepens learners' self-understanding and understanding of others, positively impacting their perceptions of themselves and each other. Diverse books also allow different voices that may not already exist in the classroom to be heard and validated.

    • Design It into Your Product

    Videos are chosen as examples of strategies in action. These choices are not endorsements of the products or evidence of use of research to develop the feature.

    Learn how OurStory allows learners to discover books that celebrate diverse experiences. Through an interactive quiz, learners can explore and read a variety of titles that might interest them.

  • Designing an online library that highlights diverse perspectives and experiences allows learners to encounter characters who are like them but also develop an appreciation for others. When learners are able to discover books that reflect their own authentic experiences, their Motivation to read grows.
    • View References

    Resources

    Below are additional examples, research, and professional development. These resources are possible representations of this strategy, not endorsements.
    Examples

    1000 Black Girl Books

    #1000blackgirlbooks campaign's resource guide

    Examples

    Diverse Books in School Libraries

    The importance and challenges of having diverse books in school libraries

    Examples

    Multicultural/Culturally-Responsive Books

    Extensive list of diverse books, including ones to improve inclusivity in instruction

    Examples

    We Need Diverse Books

    Curated selection of lists of diverse books

    Professional Development

    Stereotype Threat

    Free CE-credit webinar discussing strategies to combat Stereotype Threat in marginalized communities

    Research

    Identity, Behavior, and Relationships

    Topic that includes research on the development of social and emotional skills on Digital Promise's Research Map

    Research

    Culture & Learning

    Subtopic that explores the ways students' background and identities influence outcomes and experiences on Digital Promise's Research Map

    Research

    Importance of Diversity

    The research behind the benefits of diversity in library collections and programs

    Research

    Motivation & Autonomy

    Subtopic that explores how and why students are motivated to learn on Digital Promise's Research Map

    Research

    Reading & Cognition

    Subtopic that explores cognitive models of reading on Digital Promise's Research Map

    Research

    Self-Efficacy

    Subtopic that includes research on the factors that lead people to develop self-efficacy on Digital Promise's Research Map

    Factors Supported by this Strategy

    Language and Literacy
    Alphabet Knowledge
    Background Knowledge
    Decoding
    Narrative Skills
    Print Awareness
    Sight Recognition
    Syntax
    Verbal Reasoning
    Vocabulary
    Cognition
    Social and Emotional Learning
    Emotion
    Motivation
    Social Awareness & Relationship Skills
    Stereotype Threat
    Student Background
    Adverse Experiences
    Home Literacy Environment
    Primary Language
    Safety
    Socioeconomic Status

    More Physical Space Strategies

    Dim or Natural Lighting

    Dim or natural lighting provides a calming environment.

    Individual Spaces

    Having space where students can go supports Self-regulation and individual deliberate practice.

    Mobility & Flexibility

    Multiple tables and chairs on wheels allow for setting up the classroom to support the desired learning outcomes of each classroom activity.

    Multiple Display Boards/Screens

    Multiple display spaces promote collaboration by allowing groups to share information easily as they work.

    Multiple Writing Surfaces

    Multiple writing surfaces promote collaboration by allowing groups to share information easily as they work.

    Quiet Classroom/Pockets of Quiet

    Decreasing extra audio input provides a focused learning environment.

    Rich Library: Audio & Braille

    Books for vision differences support reading development for learners with visual needs.

    Rich Library: Complexity

    Books of varying complexity and reading levels are necessary for all students to experience reading success.

    Rich Library: Poetry

    With rhyming and creative word use, poetry is a genre that supports the development of early literacy skills in particular.

    Rich Library: Primary Language

    Students who have had little exposure to the school's language can benefit from having books in their Primary Language in their classroom.

    Rich Library: SEL Topics

    Books with SEL topics, such as developing friendships and identifying emotions, help teach these skills.

    Sound Level

    Providing ways for students to adjust sound level supports individual auditory needs.

    Temperature

    Providing ways for students to meet their individual temperature needs supports focus and Self-Regulation.

    Uncluttered Environment

    Spaces that are structured, organized, and clean provide increased room for collaboration and active learning.

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