Examining Identity and Assimilation
SEL Domain(s): Empathy
Grades: 6-8
*Lesson may need to be modified to meet the specific needs of students
Description:
Students read Mitali Perkins's essay "Magic Carpet" about cultural assimilation, then discuss questions about hiding parts of one's identity before writing privately about a time they (or someone they observed) concealed a cultural trait — or composing a story, song, or poem saying goodbye to a part of themselves they sometimes disown.
Materials
Copies of "Magic Carpet" by Mitali Perkins (one per student). The essay is available online—try Learning for Justice (formerly Teaching Tolerance) or the author's website.
Printed discussion questions (included in this lesson)
Lined paper or journals for the writing activity
Pens and pencils
