One good conversation can shift the direction of change forever.
―Linda Lam
Talking Politics?
The Pew Research Center found that over half of American adults refrain from talking politics. I learned this statistic from Gretchen Schroeder in her newest article, “Putting Political Talk into Perspective.”
Reading Gretchen’s article did more than inspire me, it moved me to action; I realized that if we have become a society that avoids uncomfortable discourse, then how will the next generation learn to engage in critical conversations?
Recently a friend reminded me that it is better to have an uncomfortable conversation when an issue emerges than a devastating conversation after an issue has festered. This is true for our personal relationships, and it is true for our professional decisions.
We are hardwired to crave comfort, yet it is through discomfort that we grow. In Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things, Adam Grant writes
Becoming a creature of discomfort can unlock hidden potential in many different forms of learning. Summoning the nerve to face discomfort is a character skill—an especially important form of determination.
If the thought of talking politics makes you want to tuck tail and run, then know it’s an opportunity to grow. This issue is designed just for you. Begin with Gretchen’s article, and then make sure to check out the other resources. In the Free For All section, we share several resources and articles, including a TED Talk by Timothy Dale called “How to Talk Politics and Keep Friends.” Mandy Robek offers a booklist of picture books to read as the election approaches. Matt Renwick gives us a guide for helping students engage in civil discourse.
This week we consider talking politics with students—plus more, as always.
Shine on,
Ruth Ayres
Editor in Chief
In this TED Talk, Timothy Dale provides advice about how to have productive political conversations with friends and includes strategies to use in these conversations that might actually make the friendship grow stronger.
The New York Times offers 12 tips to teach the 2024 election.
Christy Rush-Levine wraps meaningful conversations about race into her curriculum instead of making it “one more thing” to squeeze into the school day.
New members-only content is added each week to the Choice Literacy website. If you’re not yet a member, click here to explore membership options.
Gretchen Schroeder encourages teachers to help students know how to talk politics by establishing a positive mindset and attitude when approaching conversations.
Mandy Robek shares a booklist inspired to give students background about U.S. presidential elections.
Matt Renwick shows how to build the capacity of all students to engage in civil discourse.
In this video, Dana Murphy leads a minilesson on book club conversations, using a fishbowl strategy and building blocks to support more sophisticated discussions.
New members-only content is added each week to the Choice Literacy website. If you’re not yet a member, click here to explore membership options.
Hannah Tills and Josie Stewart were inspired by Elena Aguilar’s work about transformational coaching. They share ways to be vulnerable when trying a new coaching technique with teachers, as well as the powerful outcome of implementing new reflective practice ideas.
In this Coaching Minute, Paula Fiscus shares the notion that change is a catalyst for growth. Although change can be difficult and challenging, it is also rewarding.
Stella Villalba encourages us to reflect on our core beliefs about teaching. She offers a list of reflection questions to encourage brave and meaningful consideration.
Quote It:
It is not our differences that divide us. It is our inability to recognize, accept, and celebrate those differences.
—Audre Lorde
That’s all for this week!
