Windows, Mirrors and Sliding Doors – Using Literature to Create Culturally Responsive and Relevant Classrooms

This session will provide the “how” to engage your literacy classroom and meet the Ministry of Education expectation that students read, listen to and view a variety of texts by creators with diverse identities, perspectives and experiences. We will explore approaches to Indigenous Education, Dismantling Anti Black Racism, and Supporting the 2SLGBTQ+ community in the English Language classroom. Specifically, we will consider the concept of “windows, mirrors and sliding doors” as a framework that can guide educators in text selection, while honouring teacher’s professional judgment, student voice and agency. In addition, we will take a look at how creating a classroom and school culture grounded in culturally responsive pedagogy starts with our own learning and openness to ideas that allow simple change to take place. A list of recommended texts, (and how to use these texts for small group lit circles to create culturally responsive and relevant classrooms) will also be shared.