Dear Parents/Guardians:
Over the past few weeks the English 10 classes have been studying World War II, the Holocaust, and the literature of this time. We have been discussing whether or not something of this magnitude could ever happen in our lifetime. Many were surprise to find out that yes it has happened in our life time. To illustrate that yes, this type of hate could and does still exist in our world, I will be showing my students a film called "Hotel Rwanda." The film is a true story about the genocide that took place in Rwanda in the '90's. The film does contain some emotional material and at times can be a bit graphic. However, I find that it is an excellent teaching tool and discussion starter. If you would prefer that your child NOT view this film, please contact me via email or phone, and I will find an alternate assignment for them to complete.
If you should have any questions at all, please do not hesitate to contact me to discuss them. 348-1996 ext 144 or HMcChesney@kcs.kana.k12.wv.us
Thanks for your support and all that you do,
Heather McChesney
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14 comments:
This movie is powerful because it reiterates the timelessness tragedy of The Holocaust, brings to light the truth that one person can make a difference, and reveals the sad reality that hate can still thrive in our modern times. How many of your kids have said "The Holocaust would never happen today"? We must be aware of our world.
I am so glad that you are using it in your classroom.
I think this movie is incredibly moving. I use it as a teaching tool because the students seem to have a better connection to it due to the modern day language, customs, behaviors, relationships, clothing, regardless of the fact that it is a world away. It completely helps them connect the two events and makes for more global awareness. We are but small parts of the greater whole.
I have not seen the movie but am glad that you are using tools such as these in your classroom. Keeping the attention of students today is not an easy task.
Debbie,
Thanks for posting. I'm so glad that parents are using the site! Plus, I'll be sure that your child is rewarded for it!
I strongly recommend that you watch the movie. When I am done using it class, I can always loan it out.
I think it is important for the kids to see that this type of brutality has indeed happened in their life time. It opens the doors to discussion on what they can do invidually to see that it no longer happens. Sometimes the smallest actions, telling someone that you won't participate in the gossip chain in the hallways, is a first step to creating a community that is thoughtful and tolerant.
Thanks for your comment!
Heather McChesney
By the by, parents, a version of this letter was sent home with students last week, I posted it on Edline, and here on the blog.
In reference to the graphic nature, it isn't nudity or sexually explicit in nature. It is however, dealing with a civil war and genocide. Death comes with war. It isn't a bloody display by any means. It is however, death.
Ms.McChesny I havent scene the movie myself but I'am gald my daughter will have the privalage to . I'am also gald you are using this movie in your classroom. I think it will be easy for students to comprehend.
Wendy,
That's for being supportive of my choice of movies to accompany the unit. I agree with you; it is a movie that people need to see, and it is easy for the students to relate to. I hope that your daughter likes it as much as you do.
Thanks,
Heather McChesney
I haven't seen this movie. I will be anxious to learn what the students think about the film.
Ms Chez, My husband and I have seen this movie. Besides conjuring strong emotions this movie has the potential to cause explosive reactions between students if not properly mediated. In fifth grade we watched alex Haley's ROOTS and for most of the students it was a good tool to understand just how far African Americans have come in the US but on the other hand it was a time of personal discovery...a discovery that was publically explored. I am Wesley Hill's mother and I ask that you give all the necessary background info so no student personally identifies others or themselves with the oppression and violence the movie portrays.
Ms. McChesney,
I haven't seen all of the movie but I am glad you are giving the students a chance to understand what people in other countries haven been forced to endure. So many students have it easy and when you try to explain that things are the same in other countries. They don't seem to under stand. Keep up the good work.
Ms. Hill,
I completely agree with you on all that you stated. I would never venture into a topic such of this lightly. We have been working on tolerance education, specifically the negativity of prejudice and stereotyping and the brutality and the effects it has on us personally and as a society, for several weeks now. I have used this movie several times in other classes, I assure you and your husband that it is not just viewed, but dilegently discussed before, during, and afterwards.
I very much appreciate your comments and your suggestions. Thank you so much for being supportive of Wesley and the quality of his education.
Thanks again,
Heather McChesney
Pam,
I agree with you. In this day and age we need to understand the idea of globalization. It's a hard concept for adults let alone students. People of the words share more commonalities than they do differences.
Thanks for the comments!
Heather McChesney
It is nice to see a teacher having an interest in teaching that 'Hate' is not okay. We teach our children that 'hate' is learned and it is okay to not tolerate it. They can make a difference with the attitude they choose to portray. Your class has just reinforced what we are trying to teach in our home. Thanks, Brittany Young's Family
Young Family,
I completely agree with you; hate is learned behavior. Unfortunately, it is a contagious behavior that is polluting our society. I believe strongly that we must all do our part, no matter how big or small, to see to it that the negativity and hatred of individuals based on difference is stops. I'm glad that we are on the same page.
Thank you for posting,
Heather McChesney
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