With the rise of anti-Asian racism and violence in America in the last few years, creating a better cross-cultural understanding can never begin too early. Aimed at Colorado elementary school teachers and students, this Program for Teaching East Asia (TEA) project teaches the natural sciences and the cultures of East Asia through curated picture books and curricula. This project includes a) an in-person workshop that will introduce the books and curricula to elementary school teachers and b) undergraduate student engagement with elementary students through classroom story times and associated lessons.

The five books used in this project employ a cross-curricular approach to specific elements of natural science and East Asian cultures. The companion curricula address Colorado standards in life science, earth science, and social studies. They specifically address:

• Knowledge of the natural sciences
• Knowledge of East Asia (namely, China, Japan, Korea and Taiwan) and its cultures
• Literacy
• Geography
• Social Studies.

TEA will offer the books, curricula, and professional development to Colorado elementary school teachers. On November 4, 2023, TEA will offer a one-day workshop for 20 area elementary teachers at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. The workshop will introduce the five books, the curricula as well as resources for teaching Asian studies and science content. Participants will receive copies of the five books, curriculum materials and a stipend.

In the spring, elementary teachers from across Colorado may host an undergraduate student to read one of the five books and teach a lesson from the curriculum, regardless of whether they participated in the workshop. The lessons and storytime can take place over Zoom, and participating teachers will receive all five books.

• Teaching Elementary School Natural Sciences through Asian Picture Books

  Additional Info

  In-person workshop aimed at elementary and middle school teachers working with picture books. The session will support the teaching of the natural sciences and the cultures of East Asia in Colorado classrooms. The five books used in this project address specific Colorado standards in life science, earth science and social studies.

  ---

  Location

  on campus

  Dates

  11/4/2023 - 11/4/2023

  Public or Private

  Private Program (by request only or for a specific audience or group)

  Program Fee

  No charge to attend/participate in activity or program