Chapter 3
Today’s Multicultural, Bilingual, and Diverse School
Chapter Objectives
After studying this chapter, you should be able to:
• Describe the social context of Special Education
Chapter Overview/Presentation Outline
I: Introduction
Slide 2: Chapter 3 Objectives
-Present slide 2 and review the chapter objectives
II: Defining Culture and Its Implication for Special Education
Slide 3: Culture and the Schools
-Present slide 3 and discuss culture and microculture
III: The Social Context of Special Education
Slide 5: Social Context of Special Education
-Present slide 5 and discuss the history of special education before IDEA
IV: Disproportionate Representation
Slide 8: Disproportionate Representation
-Present slide 8 and discuss disproportionate representation, risk ratios, percentages of student
in special education, and gifted education placement
V: Factors Associated with Disproportionate representation and Educational Equality
Slide 9: Trends in Disproportionality
VI: Becoming a Culturally Responsive Teacher and Advocate
Slide 11: Becoming a Culturally Responsive Teacher and Advocate
-Present slide 10 and discuss the strategies to become a culturally responsive teacher
Class Activities
1. At the beginning of class, have students read the case study at the beginning of the chapter.
3. In pairs or groups, have students brainstorm ways to enhance their cultural awareness of their
diverse students. Have the groups share their ideas with the class.
4. Divide the class into four groups. Give each group a piece of chart paper with one of the
following headings: Enhancing self-awareness, Increasing your Knowledge and Experiences of
5. At the end of class, have students revisit the case study at the beginning of the chapter. Use the
questions at the end of the chapter, “What do you think?” to facilitate discussion.