Questions
Poverty is an issue that more and more of our nation’s children
are facing. The price that children of poverty must pay is
unbelievably high. Each year, increasing numbers of children are
entering schools with needs resulting from circumstances, such as
poverty, that schools are not prepared to meet. In reflecting on the
video, think about why poverty might influence Latrice Wright’s
children’s social, emotional, and behavioral outcomes. As a
result, how does poverty influence your teaching? What are three
details that stood out to you and why? How would you plan to
address these details?
Video
Watch the video below.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l2j7IUQTr7Q&feature=share&list=PL7233672D
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Introduction
Research has shown that poverty is related to children’s social and emotional development. Children living in poverty have a greater risk of displaying behavioral and emotional problems, such as disobedience, impulsiveness, and difficulty getting along with peers. In addition, children in poverty display fewer positive behaviors than their non-impoverished peers. While watching the video “Poverty in Jonestown, Mississippi,” think about what behaviors Latrice Wright’s children may bring to school that might cause a conflict between the behavioral cultures of home versus school.
Background
A community activist interviews Latrice Wright, who discusses the plight of those living in poverty in Jonestown, Mississippi. She allows the cameras in her home to show how she and her children live. Even in her situation, Latrice dreams of a better life for her and her children, but sees no way out.