Abstract
Statement of Problem
The review of the literature suggests that cultural understanding can be reached through multicultural literature which reflects the cultural background, beliefs, values, and practices of diverse groups of people (Harris, 1997). Multicultural books allow children to develop an understanding of their own cultural heritage and the heritage of others. While there are many multicultural children's literature reference lists, there are limited resources provided for teachers on the effective use of the literature. The purpose of this project was to create an accessible and easy to use supplement for teachers that would provide them with tools to address multiculturalism in the classroom while meeting state content standards.
Sources of Data
An extensive review of the literature was conducted to identify empirical studies and books about the importance of multicultural education, multicultural children's literature and ways to integrate them into the classroom. The literature reviewed included the following: (a) an examination of the historical background of multicultural education, (b) theoretical framework of multicultural education, ( c) the role of children's literature as an effective tool in supporting multiculturalism, (d) a review of teaching strategies that enhances children's understanding of different cultural groups, and (e) an examination of Latino and Hmong cultures.
In order to produce the annotated bibliography, the researcher first completed a review of the related literature as outlined above. Drawing upon this review, a list of appropriate children's books related to Latino and Hmong cultures was compiled. The researcher then developed an annotation/summary for each of the books, along with supplementary follow up activities to support the use of the books in the classroom.
Conclusions Reached
The final project is a collection of children's literature and supplementary activities relating to Latino and Hmong culture. A brief annotation is provided for each book, along with suggestions for follow up activities. Although the books included here are intended for classroom use with a group of children, parents and teachers could also use them with individual children in accordance with the needs of the individual child. The books and activities are meant to help students develop respect and an appreciation for different cultural groups through understanding cultural similarities and differences.