Multicultural Text Set

Personal Acceptance
By: Kaley Aylor
 Relevant Foundation Blocks and SOLs
Foundation block 1: Self-Concept
b) Begin to recognize and express own emotions using words rather
than actions
c) Recognize self as a unique individual and respect differences of
others
Foundation Block 4: Interaction with others
f) Begin to recognize and respond to the needs, rights, and emotions of
others
Foundation block 5: Social Problem Solving
a) Express feelings through appropriate gestures, actions, and
words.
e) Include others in play activities

K.1 The student will identify and describe key health and safety
concepts.
n) Identify emotions (e.g., happiness, sadness, anger, fear,
frustration).
o) Describe what it means to be a friend and to show consideration
and concern for others.
1.1 The student will identify the basic components and functions of
human body systems and the importance of safe practices, positive
interpersonal relationships, and environmental health.
g) Compare and contrast emotions that may make a person happy
and emotions that may make a person feel unhappy or mad.
h) Describe characteristics that are unique to each individual.
2.1 The Student will identify the major body systems, healthy food and
beverage choices, emotions, and social skills, and explain how each is
connected to personal health.
j) Explain the difference between teasing and bullying.
l) Define self-image, and identify that individuals are unique.
2.3 The student will describe the influences and factors that impact
health and wellness.
k) Identify and discuss how to show respect for similarities and
differences between and among individuals.

-All of these foundation blocks and standards are evident in all books,
and activities. However, I chose the grade I would suggest for each book
and attached the standard or foundation block appropriate.
 I am Truly by Kelly Greenwalt
Summary: I am Truly is a book about a
young girl who is ambitious and builds
her self-esteem by telling herself all the
positive things she can achieve and
what she can do. She has high
expectations for herself and she knows
her self worth. Read the book to find
out what Truly is capable of when she
discovers her inner ambitions can
come true!
Ages: 3-6 years old
Key Words: Diverse, worthy,
empowering
Evaluation: One of the main things that I appreciated about this book
was the main character is African-American. I like this because there
arent many books that give such a powerful outlook on growth in the
eyes of an individual that isnt white. This is important because there is
such a divide amongst people of all colors and one of the issues that we
have in our society is the ways in which individuals with color lack self
assurance. This book follows an African-American female character that
is learning to love herself for who she is and how she looks. Her
ambitions are high and she id going through all obstacles in order to
achieve that goal.
Recommended Use: This book would be perfect to read the first day of
school where students may feel nervous about their new surroundings.
Being in a new place can plant a seed of awkwardness or insecurities.
Reading this book would be a great option with a lesson following it
where students would draw a picture of themselves, then write in their
journal, a piece of paper, or for the younger grades, the teacher will
write their answers. Having them think about what makes them unique
and important is a great way to grow their confidence levels.
Foundation Block/SOL: Foundation block 1: Self-Concept
b) Begin to recognize and express own emotions using words rather than actions
c) Recognize self as a unique individual and respect differences of others
Foundation Block 4: Interaction with others
f) Begin to recognize and respond to the needs, rights, and emotions of others.
 Last Stop On Market Street by Matt De La
Pea

Summary: Last Stop On Market Street is

about a young boy named CJ that sees all
these materialistic things around him that he
doesnt have access to. His grandmother
explains to him all the ways he is lucky to be
who he is and have the experiences he is able
to have. Read the book to find out if CJ
accepts the life he was born into, and if he
realizes just how precious his life is despite
the things around him he had originally
wished he could have changed.
Ages: PreK-2nd grade
Key Words: Diversity, poverty, acceptance
Evaluation: The story of this book is one that left me a little speechless.
It was one of the experiences you get reading a childrens book and
realize that the meaning is so deep when reading it as an adult. Some of
childrens books texts are so simple that adults dont really think about
what the authors are trying to say. The artwork in this book is beautiful
and realistic. I loved the diversity and all the cultures that were evident
in this story. There were characters that were able to have electronic
devices, there were elderly, young, individuals with tattoos, individuals
that are blind, and individuals who are homeless or in poverty and eat at
a soup kitchen. The story line makes me feel grateful and appreciate all
that I have, even if it is the bare minimum.
Recommended Use: Last Stop On Market Street is a wonderful book to
use for a cultural identity lesson. This book introduces multiple
different identities and scenarios and it explains how all of them are
okay, but it is important not to wish to be something you arent. The
students will gather for group time to read this book, but will complete
a worksheet individually where they will write about A Day in The Life
of _____. Here they can talk about their routines and their lives that they
value. The beauty of this is the freedom to value what they please,
because each of their worksheets makes them who they are.
Foundation Blocks/SOL:
2.1 The Student will identify the major body systems, healthy food and
beverage choices, emotions, and social skills, and explain how each is
connected to personal health.
j) Explain the difference between teasing and bullying.
l) Define self-image, and identify that individuals are unique.
2.3 The student will describe the influences and factors that impact
health and wellness.
k) Identify and discuss how to show respect for similarities and
differences between and among individuals
 I Like Myself by Karen Beaumont
Summary: I Like Myself is about a
young girl who loves everything
about herself. She realizes that not
only does she love who she is on the
outside, but she is unique because of
the qualities she has on the inside as
well. Read this book to follow the
journey of self-acceptance and to
feel an amazing sense of pride based
on who you are, inside and out.
Ages: 3-6 years old
Key Words: Love, unique, pride
Evaluation: I like Myself is a
wonderful book to read with all ages. Even though this is appropriate
for three to six year olds, I would read this to all of my classes grade
PreK through sixth. It is such a good book, and the content is so
meaningful and important for all individuals to understand. Especially
individuals that are in an awkward stage of life where they are trying to
piece together who they are and accept how they look, and behave, in a
world that is so quick to judge and belittle.
Recommended Use: This book has such an important concept. I would
read this within the first week of school so my students understand
through literacy that all walks of life, and all mindsets (other than
negative). I would read the book as a group and then have them list
things about themselves that they like, whether it be physical or
emotional. Then, I will have them find a partner and list things about
each other they like. There will be no room for negativity in this lesson
plan and the students will feel empowered and uplifted about
themselves by the end of our time. That is the ultimate goal as a teacher
and the ability to create even a moment of self admiration is a
movement in the right direction.
Foundation Blocks/SOL:
K.1 The student will identify and describe key health and safety
concepts.
n) Identify emotions (e.g., happiness, sadness, anger, fear,
frustration).
o) Describe what it means to be a friend and to show consideration
and concern for others.
 Theres No Such Thing As Little by
LeUyen Pham

Summary: Theres No Such Thing As

Little follows the story of two
children who are told they are little.
Instead of taking that as a negative
adjective, they realize that there are
such amazing things that come from
simple words. They create examples
of situations where simple things
have much larger meaning. Read
this book to find out is the children
are able to realize that their size means nothing when it comes to what
they are capable of achieving.
Ages: 3-6 years old
Key Words: Inspirational, determination, respect
Evaluation: This book is another example of minimalistic content, but
large impact. This book makes it possible to turn words that may feel
negative, or belittling, and find something positive in it in order for you
to continue reaching your goals. I appreciate the way this book allows
readers to visualize something that has a negative meaning behind it,
then you flip the page and that negative thing is a part of a greater good.
There is so much negative surrounding us in this world, and the
message of this book is import for young minds to realize that no matter
their differences, and no matter outside sources that say they cant
because of those differences, they can.
Recommended Use: After reading this book in whole group, I would
have then go back to their desks and draw a scene from the book. They
could explain what was small about this item and how it was used to
be something great. The book is all about mindset, so I would like for
this to be an activity that can help them realize the importance of their
mindset.
Foundation Blocks/SOL:
Foundation block 1: Self-Concept
b) Begin to recognize and express own emotions using words rather
than actions
c) Recognize self as a unique individual and respect differences of
others.
 The Legend of Spookley the
Square Pumpkin by Joe Troiano

Summary: The Legend of Spookley

the Square Pumpkin is about a
pumpkin that is oddly shaped: a
square! His differences create a
doubt deep inside of him and he
yearns for nothing more than to
be like all the other pumpkins. But,
one night a storm falls on the
pumpkin patch and Spookleys
differences are the only thing that
can save all of the pumpkins. Read
this book to see if Spookley finally accepts who he is and how the other
pumpkins, and the farmer, react to such a unique pumpkin!
Ages: PreK-3rd grade
Key Terms: Determination, confidence, welcoming
Evaluation: This book is a great example of overcoming injustices. The
book is all about finding strength within yourself even after being made
fun of or looked down on because of your differences. However, the
book notes how those very same differences that maybe placed you in a
minority, is the difference that makes you valuable to a functioning
society.
Recommended Use: My lesson for Spookley revolved around not only
emotions, but the shapes and colors as well. I found an opportunity to
combine many foundation block requirements into one lesson. When I
read the book we discussed feelings and how Spookley must have felt
when he was looked down on like he was. Then, we talked about the
different shapes and colors. We did an experiment with the primary
colors before making our own Spookley pumpkins.
Foundation Blocks/SOL:
Foundation block 1: Self-Concept
b) Begin to recognize and express own emotions using words rather
than actions
c) Recognize self as a unique individual and respect differences of
others
Foundation Block 4: Interaction with others
f) Begin to recognize and respond to the needs, rights, and emotions of
others
Foundation block 5: Social Problem Solving
a) Express feelings through appropriate gestures, actions, and
words.
e) Include others in play activities
 Giraffes Cant Dance by Giles Andrede
Summary: Giraffes Cant Dance is about
a giraffe named Gerald that wants
nothing more than to dance. However,
all the other animals in the jungle told
him that giraffes cant dance and that he
should go home. Gerald decides to make
his own music and dances to his own
beat. He finally realized that being a
giraffe didnt mean he couldnt dance
and that just because others said his
kind would never be able to dance, he could. Read to see if Gerald
proves to the other animals in the forest that Giraffes can, indeed,
dance!
Ages: PreK-Kindergarten
Key Words: Realization, acceptance, stereotypes
Evaluation: Giraffes Cant Dance is a great example of no letting others
who tell you no, cant make you sit out of something you are passionate
about. This fights injustices and gives an example of a group that was
told no because of their genetics. After the giraffe decided that they
didnt want to be told he couldnt dance just because he was a giraffe, he
found out that he could dance. This book shows that just because others
say things that may take away an opportunity, doesnt make it true, or
socially acceptable.
Recommended Use: Depending on the age of the group, I have many
different ideas for activities, regarding this book. For the PreK level, this
book would be a good option to read then have the students make their
own giraffes that have holes at the bottom so the students and see how
their giraffes dance. For the older grades, I would make this a little more
in depth. The students will color their own dancing giraffes then below
they will have a writing prompt where they can talk about things they
really like. This promotes excitement for personal interests and goals.
Foundation Blocks/SOL:
1.1 The student will identify the basic components and functions of
human body systems and the importance of safe practices, positive
interpersonal relationships, and environmental health.
g) Compare and contrast emotions that may make a person happy
and emotions that may make a person feel unhappy or mad.
h) Describe characteristics that are unique to each individual.
 The Cow That Laid an Egg by Andy
Cutbill

Summary: The Cow That Laid an Egg is

about a cow that has a difficult time
finding something about herself that is
spectacular. She is so disheartened
because all the other cows seem to have
talents and she is the plain, boring
outcast. When she lays an egg, all the
other animals call her a liar and are
adamant that she is just an ordinary cow. Read this book to see if
Marjorie the cow was telling the truth, and how the other animals
handle her talent.
Ages: PreK-Kindergarten
Key Terms: Unique, understanding, minority
Evaluation: The Cow That Laid an Egg uses the story of a cow that feels
abnormal, and makes her do something spectacular. This promotes self
worth because it makes it known that everyone has something they are
good at, which makes them special. I think the meaning behind having a
talent you are proud of, or a trait you are proud of, is something to take
pride in and not be discouraged when others dont see it the same way
you do. This book does a great job explaining how Marjorie was so
proud of herself, and the other animals called her a liar and made her
feel like her ability wasnt special. Its important to learn from Marjorie
and stand by what you believe in, and what your goals are.
Recommended Use: For this activity, the students could learn not only
about standing up for there personal goals, but they could read this
book during a life cycle section. They could create an egg and realize
what animals lay eggs. Or they could make a cow and discuss the things
that they are passionate about, or talents they think they are very good
at doing.
Foundation Blocks/SOL:
K.1 The student will identify and describe key health and safety
concepts.
n) Identify emotions (e.g., happiness, sadness, anger, fear,
frustration).
o) Describe what it means to be a friend and to show consideration
and concern for others.
 Its Okay to Be Different by Todd Parr

Summary: Its Okay to Be Different is

about different characters that have
multiple different things that look
different. The story explains how it is
okay to have all these different
characteristics and it gives examples of
such differences. Read this book to see
how it is possible to be kind to others
that may not look, or speak alike.
Ages: PreK-3rd grade
Key Terms: Differences, overcoming, acceptance
Evaluation: The message behind this book was really important and I
appreciated the large range of diversity they offer in the illustrations.
The book does good job addressing individuals that are in a minority
group, and showing how they really arent that different. It addressed
individuals who arent in a minority and it explained that it was okay to
be different. It is okay to build those bridges and to come together as a
unit.
Recommended Use: For this particular book, I would draw a heartand
cut it out in smaller pieces that were shapes like a puzzle piece. I will
have the students draw themselves and include something that they
think makes them unique. Then, when they are finished I will havethe
students put all of the puzzle pieces together to make one large heart. I
will display the heart in our classroom and remind students that they
are each unique, but that is okay and it is appreciated because we can all
come together and love those differences at the end of the day.
Foundation Blocks/SOL:
2.1 The Student will identify the major body systems, healthy food and
beverage choices, emotions, and social skills, and explain how each is
connected to personal health.
j) Explain the difference between teasing and bullying.
l) Define self-image, and identify that individuals are unique.
2.3 The student will describe the influences and factors that impact
health and wellness.
k) Identify and discuss how to show respect for similarities and
differences between and among individuals.
 Whoever You Are by Mem
Fox

Summary: Whoever You Are

is about accepting others
who are from all over the
planet and looking at things
far more important than
looks and dialect. It shows
how peoples differences are
much smaller than peoples
similarities and it unites
individuals of all
backgrounds, perspectives,
and cultures. Read this book
to feel a sense of pride for all
the differences that unite into who we are, and the way we can all find
to be similar.
Ages: 1st-2nd grade
Key Terms: Geography, communication, togetherness
Evaluation: Reading this book was a breath of fresh air and I really
appreciated the meaning behind it while the other books made not of
differences and gave positive behaviors to overcome difficult situations,
it didnt specifically address race and ethnicity. Whoever You Are is
about cultural differences as well as physical color. It does a good job of
addressing injustice and racism by saying that no matter where we are
from, or where our ancestors are from, we are all the same. We all
experience emotions the same, we all experience pain the same, and we
shouldnt let those small differences separate us.
Recommended Use: This book is a good foundation for a school wide
movement, especially in Harrisonburg where there is so much diversity.
I would make a display that the students can see to remind them that
they are all equal and all united. I would have a world taped to the wall
and have my students handprints surrounding the earth. The students
will come up with a prompt as a whole to place in the middle of the
Earth.
Foundation Blocks/SOL:
2.1 The Student will identify the major body systems, healthy food and
beverage choices, emotions, and social skills, and explain how each is
connected to personal health.
j) Explain the difference between teasing and bullying.
l) Define self-image, and identify that individuals are unique.
2.3 The student will describe the influences and factors that impact
health and wellness.
k) Identify and discuss how to show respect for similarities and
differences between and among individuals.
 Thelma the Unicorn by Aaron Blabey

Summary: Thelma the Unicorn is a story

about a horse named Thelma who wants
nothing more than to be different from the
way she is. She wants to be a unicorn, so
others will love her. One day, her wish
comes true and she is given attention from
all over the world. After she is finally
popular, she realizes the attention isnt all
that great after all and she chooses to be
who she really is. Read this book to see if
Thelma finally accepts herself as Thelma
the horse, or is she feels the need to go back
to being Thelma the unicorn.
Ages: PreK-Kindergarten
Key Terms: Acceptance, difference, understanding
Evaluation: This story is a good example of personal acceptance
because it shows how being yourself is the best version of you. After
having the opportunity to be something she wasnt, Thelma made the
realization that she missed being herself, and pretending to be anything
but that was exhausting. Sometimes it is hard to accept yourself the way
you are but this book does a good job showing how being someone else
can make you feel worse.
Recommended Use: A good activity that could accompany this book is
to give the children an outline of a body. They will color different parts
of the body with different colors and they will say different things they
love until it makes up all of their bodies. This is a visual aid in helping
them see how the things they love make up who they are.
Foundation Blocks/SOL:
Foundation block 1: Self-Concept
b) Begin to recognize and express own emotions using words rather
than actions
c) Recognize self as a unique individual and respect differences of
others
Foundation Block 4: Interaction with others
f) Begin to recognize and respond to the needs, rights, and emotions of
others
Foundation block 5: Social Problem Solving
a) Express feelings through appropriate gestures, actions, and
words.
e) Include others in play activities

K.1 The student will identify and describe key health and safety
concepts.
n) Identify emotions (e.g., happiness, sadness, anger, fear,
frustration).
o) Describe what it means to be a friend and to show consideration
and concern for others.
Kaley Aylor

Professor Harris

ELED 310

11 November 2017

Multicultural Text Set: Personal Acceptance

Throughout the duration of this semester, there have been evident examples

of obstacles students have to face on a regular basis. From a young girl feeling the

need to be perfect, to a young boy coming to terms with his identity, there have

been instances where the intervention of personal acceptance is appropriate.

There was an opportunity that I had in which I was able to read a book and

give insight to personal acceptance. I decided to read the book called Spookley. After

being introduced to the book, it was evident that the positive story involving a

courageous pumpkin was perfect to read to my students that are beginning to have

self doubt, and insecurities are beginning to form. The square shaped pumpkin has

so much doubt in himself, and hes finally put in a situation where his differences

stand out in such a positive light. This book highlights a multicultural text because of

the differences each student has. Whether those differences are color, disability,

home life, religion, or any other thing society has been able to wedge between

people coming together. A reading that connected to the lesson was the reading In

the LD Bubble. A quote that I remembered, and recognized was And if you get

diagnosed, you get a definite label, and then you know it wont ever go away, ( Life

Stories, 27). As I read this, I started to think about the differences among all types of

people and how it affects them on a daily basis. It doesnt have to be a disability, it
could be their past, their parents, their ethnicity, their religion, their culture, and the

list goes on forever because there are so many things people will find in order to

categorize the human race. Being able to recognize that those labels still exist and

are evident, allows students to overcome struggles that may hold them back. To me,

the importance of teaching self respect and adoration is more crucial to the World

that just to form a confident child. To me, it means to accept and comfort those who

may be feeling lost, and in return they will help others the same way they were

helped and before you know it, teachers will have started a chain reaction and the

world will be filled with love for others, and self.

During the time spent in the classroom, I paid extra attention to my students

that were delayed or were English second language learners. I made sure to

incorporate all students by talking to them in ways that would get them excited. I

would always smile, and when they needed help I would encourage them while

reminding them of the principles we are covering. The cultural diversity content

that I focused on when I chose these books was personal acceptance. Teaching

children to love themselves and also learn to appreciate all the differences between

others is hard, and was difficult to get across. However, finding relevant and

interesting literature that aids their understanding is the first step towards a

positive and beneficial approach. This seemed appropriate for the purpose of this

class because all the differences that set individuals apart all starts with biases and

insecurities that lay deep inside them. By making sure students come to terms with

who they are, and love the person they are, it makes them positive and confidant

grown ups. Not only does this effect the way these students will behave towards
themselves, but it also sets the stage for how they will treat others. I think it is so

important to set the tone of self-appreciation and self-love. Being a teacher that can

positively influence students and help create a positive image for the future is a

teacher I aspire to be.