Publication

Reading Diversity


Note: This tool was created under Learning for Justice’s former name, Teaching Tolerance.

Including diverse voices is a priority in K–12 classrooms, and we’ve developed a unique model to make it easier: Reading Diversity. (This model may look familiar: It’s a new version of an existing tool called Appendix D.)

Traditionally, tools that aid text selection have focused on quantitative and qualitative measures like complexity, word and sentence length, cohesion, language features and knowledge demands. But these tools do not include diversity and representation, critical literacy, or reader and task as part of the selection criteria.  

Reading Diversity is different. This model promotes a multi-dimensional approach to text selection that prioritizes critical literacy, cultural responsiveness and complexity.

We have designed two versions of the Reading Diversity model as two editable PDF tools educators can download, complete, save and share. 

Explore these sample Reading Diversity tools, and begin cultivating a more inclusive classroom library today! 

 

Sample Tools K-2

Reading Diversity K-2 sample 1, Hot, Hot Roti for Dada-ji

 

Extended Edition 
Teacher's Edition

 

Reading Diversity K-2 sample 2, a shelter in our car

 

 

Extended Edition
Teacher's Edition

 

Sample Tools Grades 3-5

Reading Diversity 3-5 sample 1, Silent Star

 

Extended Edition 
Teacher's Edition

 

Reading Diversity 3-5 sample 2, In Our Mothers' House

 

 

Extended Edition
Teacher's Edition

 

Sample Tools Grades 6-8

Reading Diversity 6-8 Sample 1, Under the Mesquite

 

Extended Edition 
Teacher's Edition

 

Reading Diversity 6-8 Sample 2, Bayard Rustin

 

 

Extended Edition
Teacher's Edition

 

Sample Tools Grades 9-12

Reading Diversity 9-12 Sample 1, I Am Scout


Extended Edition   
Teacher's Edition  

 

 

Reading Diversity 9-12 Sample 2, The Crossing

 

Extended Edition
Teacher's Edition

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