What is an example of culturally responsive teaching?

• A. Include texts from students' cultures
• B. Use only canonical texts
• C. Include texts from students' cultures and perspectives in the curriculum
• D. Exclude student voices

Answer: (C)

Culturally responsive teaching centers on recognizing and using students’ cultural backgrounds as an integral part of the learning process. Including texts from students’ cultures and perspectives in the curriculum is the best example because it directly brings those lived experiences into what is studied, helping students see themselves reflected in the material and encouraging them to engage more deeply with multiple viewpoints.

This approach also invites discussion from diverse angles, broadening understanding and building critical thinking about how knowledge is shaped. It promotes equity by broadening narratives beyond traditional canons and giving voice to communities that are often underrepresented.

Simply including texts from students’ cultures without weaving those perspectives into the broader curriculum can be helpful but incomplete, since it may treat culture as a add-on rather than a central, ongoing part of learning. Relying only on canonical texts centers established voices and can marginalize students’ backgrounds. Excluding student voices runs counter to the goal of making learning relevant and inclusive.