Teaching Diversity and Tolerance in the Classroom: A Thematic Storybook Approach

This paper addresses the issue of diversity and tolerance in the classroom by using multicultural children's literature with a thematic approach. With a review of the related studies on the topic, it points out that the understanding, respect and appreciation of various cultures are imperative for us to live peacefully as global citizens, and the importance of addressing tolerance and differences in our schools. Since literature is a great resource for us to study our various cultures, the article shows classroom teachers how one specific model, the thematic approach, can be used to enhance children's awareness of diversity and allow them to see there are more similarities than differences among cultures.