Drama Wor(l)ds: Explorations of Latina/o Realistic Fiction

• Published in: Language arts 2004-03, Vol.81 (4), p.272-282
• Main Author: Medina, Carmen L.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: American literature; Anzaldua, Gloria (1942-2004); Border protection; Childrens drama; Childrens literature; Citizenship; Classrooms; Community Relations; Cultural Pluralism; Education; Elementary Education; Elementary school students; Elementary Schools; Females; Fiction; Friendship; Grade 5; Hispanic Americans; Language arts; Latin American literature; Learner Engagement; Literary characters; Literary dialogue; Literary themes; Literature; Mexican Americans; Mothers; Role Playing; Teaching; Theme
• ISSN: 0360-9170; 1943-2402
• DOI: 10.58680/la20042905

This article looks at fifth graders’ interpretations of Friends from the other side/Amigos del tro lado by Chicana/Mexican American feminist writer Gloria Anzaldúa (1993). Drama-in-Education strategies were the pedagogical tools used to facilitate the students’ engagement in dialogues that moved them from understanding aspects of the life and social reality of Mexican undocumented immigrants on the US/Mexico border to questioning issues of citizenship and justice. Three (3) overarching themes were identified that extended through the dialogues and the drama: First, Making sense of the issues, where the students began to talk and make sense of social issues presented in the text such as citizenship, representation and language. Second, Friendship and compassion. Finally, Becoming critical: Understanding the multiple perspectives involved.