Black Ants and Buddhists
BLACK ANTS & BUDDHISTS: THINKING CRITICALLY & TEACHING DIFFERENTLY IN THE PRIMARY GRADES
By Mary Cowhey. Stenhouse Publishers. 2006. (720 pages)
Subjects: Education. Multicultural Education. Social Justice Issues.
Recommended for: Educators, for use with elementary-aged children
SUMMARY:
Cowhey has spent several years integrating social justice, activism, community participation and critical thinking into her classes in order to nurture “more informed, articulate, active and participatory citizens who know the power of their own voices.” A conversation about stepping on ants – or not – leads to an exploration of different world religions and a philosophical debate about compassion and kindness. Students frequently meet with community leaders (like the mayor) and help enact change in their school and community. They register voters, feed the homeless, quote Gandhi and debate whether or not Columbus should have ever set foot in the “new world.” Of course, they also fight over play equipment and spill their juice, but they’re just six or seven, after all.
In a world where "What can I do? I'm only one person?" is a common lament sprouting from the mouths of adults, Cowhey has demonstrated in her book strategies and stories for empowering and inspiring young learners.
IDEAS FOR USING THIS BOOK:
Cowhey provides suggestions and resources for exploring a variety of social justice issues with young children. Topics addressed in her book include:
- Compassion
- Peace
- Activism
- History
- Culture & Diversity
- Families & Community
- Dealing with personal & global tragedy
Note: If you search for Cowhey’s book in Google Book Search you will be able to view large sections of text from the book, so that you can get a sense of how useful it will be for you.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Find out more about the author & her work:
An Interview with Mary Cowhey by EdNews.org
A "Wireside Chat" with Mary in 2006 by Education World.
Want to submit a teaching idea for this title?
Email: Marsha@HumaneEducation.org
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