Multicultural

I honestly don't feel that many of the topics brought up have their place in a math classroom. For example, as I have stated in a previous entry, Homosexuality. I am not saying that I would ignore a student who brought the topic, but it is not something I am comfortable discussing. I would, however, be more than willing to help my students find another outlet, such as the library, or I could go to their English or History teachers ask them about whether or not they would like to address the issue. The same would go for Sex Education. If a student asked me, I would find the best way possible to help them get the information they need, but I would not feel comfortable addressing it myself for many reasons, one of which being I'm a math teacher, not a Sex Ed teacher, or a gender studies teachers. Though I do understand the importance of incorporating other areas of study into the classroom. History is a big portion of the math world that is often left out. Coupling a history unit with a math unit and team teaching is something that I am very interested in, and think could be very beneficial to my students. Overall, however, I think it was awesome how the group was able to get a conversation going and that everyone was very respectful of one anothers' opinions. I am also glad that the danger side of the talking about such issues was brought up. Homosexuality, Religion, and many other topics are a leading cause of debate, anger, and hostile feelings in general, and it is something to be aware of when planning any kind of unit about a controversial topic. This presentation really helped get everyone involved and thinking about topics and issues they might not otherwise have put too much thought into.