In this episode we look at what world language curriculum has included and what has been left out, with a critical eye on diverse ethnicities and voices. I’m joined by Ben Tinsley, a French teacher in Philadelphia. He guides us through his own language learning journey as a Black student and how he did not see himself and the Afro-Black-Caribbean experience reflected in his language learning experience.
This prompted him to unapologetically center Francophone Black people in his curriculum. This conversation will help us all provide our students with language learning experiences that authentically, and accurately, reflect the diversity of our target language cultures.
Ben speaks about…
- his personal experience with language learning
- what has been missing in language curriculum, particularly regarding diverse ethnicities, voices and lived experiences
- why is it essential that we include diverse voices and ethnicities as an essential part of our curriculum, rather than one-off discussions
- how to make sure that our students understand the full range of voices, ethnicities, and lived experiences of those in our target language cultures
- where to find resources and how do you make them an organic part of the curriculum
Connect with Ben Tinsley:
- Twitter (@AfroFranco2)
- Instargram (@AfroFranco2)
- Facebook Group (AfroFranco)
- Website: Afrofranco.com
Work with Joshua either in person or remotely.
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