Identity Markers
1 Identity Wheel 12 REVISED Aug 2018 (2).pdf
The Identity Wheel
After spending time with character traits, we introduced students to the identity wheel (pictured above). Over several days, students explored each category on the wheel through quick activities, discussions, mini-lessons, videos, and picture books (see right). Students came up with definitions and examples for each trait, which we added to our class identity wheel, which was on display throughout the unit.
Students were encouraged to reflect on their own identity as we discussed each trait, but they were never required to share any aspect of their identity aloud or in writing at any point.
SJL Picture Books
When teaching about identity markers, we wanted to start with examples that were simplified as much as possible. Therefore, we chose several picture books from our Social Justice Library that could be used as a jumping off point (see below). Our goal was that through the stories in these books and the conversations that they would generate, students would be able to better understand where identity markers come from and how they impact the people who receive them. Ultimately we only ended up using It Feels Good to Be Yourself when discussing gender identity, but the conversations and learning that came from reading that text together encouraged us to continue using picture books in the future.
*NOTE: Books in our OES Social Justice Library are available for any educator in the state of Vermont to borrow. Visit our Social Justice Library website (linked above) to see a complete list of books and make a request to borrow.
It Feels Good to Be Yourself
(LGBTQ+)
Some people are boys. Some people are girls. Some people are both, neither, or somewhere in between.This sweet, straightforward exploration of gender identity will give children a fuller understanding of themselves and others. With child-friendly language and vibrant art, It Feels Good to Be Yourself provides young readers and parents alike with the vocabulary to discuss this important topic with sensitivity.
Skin Again
(Race)
The skin I'm in is just a covering. It cannot tell my story. The skin I'm in is just a covering. If you want to know who I am, you have got to come inside and open your heart way wide.Celebrating all that makes us unique and different, Skin Again offers new ways to talk about race and identity. Race matters, but only so much--what's most important is who we are on the inside. Looking beyond skin, going straight to the heart, we find in each other the treasures stored down deep. Learning to cherish those treasures, to be all we imagine ourselves to be, makes us free.
This award-winning book, with its myriad of faces, introduces a strong message of loving yourself and others that will appeal to parents of our youngest readers.
The Journey
(Immigration/Refugees)
". . . a wonderful teaching tool for those who are welcoming refugees into their community."—The New York TimesWith haunting echoes of the current refugee crisis this beautifully illustrated book explores the unimaginable decisions made as a family leave their home and everything they know to escape the turmoil and tragedy brought by war. This book will stay with you long after the last page is turned.
Not So Different
(Disabilities/Acceptance)
Not So Different offers a humorous, relatable, and refreshingly honest glimpse into Shane Burcaw’s life. Shane tackles many of the mundane and quirky questions that he’s often asked about living with a disability, and shows readers that he’s just as approachable, friendly, and funny as anyone else.Shane Burcaw was born with a rare disease called spinal muscular atrophy, which hinders his muscles’ growth. As a result, his body hasn’t grown bigger and stronger as he’s gotten older―it’s gotten smaller and weaker instead. This hasn’t stopped him from doing the things he enjoys (like eating pizza and playing sports and video games) with the people he loves, but it does mean that he routinely relies on his friends and family for help with everything from brushing his teeth to rolling over in bed.