Blog Post 4: "What Should Teachers Do?"

         Ebonics can be defined as an American black English regarded as a language in its own right rather than as a dialect of standard English. This language, has become a well-talked about topic, especially in the lives of teachers and schools. People have many views about this language and its effects on education, but specifically Lisa Delpit's view is that, "Teachers should recognize that the linguistic form a student brings to school is intimately connected with loved one’s community, and personal identity. To suggest that this form is “wrong” or, even worse, ignorant, is to suggest that something is wrong with the student and his or her family (33)." I found myself agreeing with Delpit's outlook the most, since it seems to be the most respectful way of approaching Ebonics. 

Each and everyone of us have come from different families, communities, and childhoods that have sculpted us into the people we are today. Despite where we come from and what our life experiences are it is important/necessary for all of us to recognize and respect the way others are. Although many teachers find it necessary to correct their students when they speak Ebonics, I personally would not. I understand that sometimes it is not easily understood, from past experiences, but that is who they are. In terms of teaching I think that as long as the students understand the material and are capable of expressing their thoughts/ideas in a civil way that is all that is important. Like Delpit stated in the excerpt many students do not respond well when teacher are constantly correcting their Ebonics-speaking. Not only does it push the students further away, but it causes frustration for both the students and teachers. 

If teachers feel the need to correct their students, I think they need to carefully go about it and use the techniques Delpit talked about, such as performing plays, morning announcements, or interpreting famous people. I believe that using these techniques make it more fun for the students, since they do not feel forced or pressured to correct their speaking. Using these ways is more beneficial for both the teachers and students.

Reading this excerpt made become more aware of others’ characteristics and how important it is to be respectful, especially as a future teacher. Like Delpit said, correcting others based on the way they speak, “will not make any of them more intelligent. It will not teach them math or science or geography- or for that matter, compassion, courage, or responsibility” (39). The overall message is that we need to start focusing on things that truly impact our students’ understanding and well-being.