Social studies- Teaching Social Justice

The aim of education is to provide the next generation with the skills and knowledge they need to become active members of societies. Our society relies on responsible, contributing adults. Teacher play an important role in preparing students to take responsibilities and become contributing members of society. Teachers are able to influence student’s morality and model citizenship. Teacher can encourage inquiry about the norms of society and inspire actions. Teacher has to foster “predictive dialogue about the inequalities and possibilities for social reconstruction in communities within which teachers and their students are developing.”

-What challenges might arise in planning and implementing a social justice unit and how might you address these challenges?

Most classrooms are diverse with students from different backgrounds and values and believes. Social justice topics can give rise to debates and can be offensive to some students. But I believe it is important to highlight different opinions to get students to questions their own views and strengthen their understanding of diversity. Should can learn how actions can be seen and can affect others. Students should also be taught to express their views respectfully and receive different opinions openly.

-How might you encourage your young learners to become agents of change?

I would encourage students to be a part of their own community. I would try and incorporate different community issues into different classroom activities and encourage debates and community outreach projects to benefit the community.

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