[CALIBK12] what about those books about sexual reproduction?

[Stanley, Deborah]

Hello CAlibbers;

 

I realize this discussion may be about nonfiction sexual reproduction
books, which when appropriately selected with grade-level criteria are
protected in a library by first amendment and should be out on shelves
not hidden, I also want to expand the discussion to art books. As a
former classroom teacher who integrated art into my curriculum, and as
an art teacher in my first life, "naked people books" are an excellent
OPPORTUNITY! For example, currently our 7th grade standards include the
Renaissance with, of course, Michelangelo's "David" as well as all the
wonderful artists of this time who participated in a rebirth of
classical art, where the focus was on the beauty of the human body.

 

When we have a research unit on the Renaissance, I always initiate a
discussion with 7th graders about why pictures of naked people in art
books are different from magazines at the drug store with their covers
hidden. Are they both bad? Is there a difference? Do you know the
answer? The answer is INTENT! Art is created with the intent of honoring
the beauty of the human form, while pornography has, well, other
intentions and motives behind it, not the least of which is often
disrespectful and demeaning.

 

This discussion is highly appropriate when handled well with: 1) good
strategic questioning, 2) utter non-bias on the part of the instructor,
and 3) knowing how to channel an honest discussion away from emotional
silliness to intelligent conversation. This is a pivotal moment of
understanding for students at a pivotal moment in their growth and
development both physically and socially. Out of this discussion can
come great respect for others and a much greater understanding of the
role of art in our lives.

 

Deb Stanley

Teacher Librarian

Central MS, Riverside USD

 

________________________________

From: calibk12-bounces at lists.sjsu.edu
[mailto:calibk12-bounces at lists.sjsu.edu] On Behalf Of Judy Egan
Sent: Wednesday, November 05, 2008 8:15 AM
To: calibk12 at lists.sjsu.edu
Cc: Donna Purcell
Subject: [CALIBK12] what about those books about sexual reproduction?

 

I and others in my District would greatly appreciate some advice on how
Calibers regulate "those" books.  You know the ones with the drawings of
naked people and the facts about reproduction and menstrual cycles, etc.
:-)

Judy Egan

Library Media Technician

Cesar Chavez Middle School

202 Oleander Dr.

Oceanside, CA 92057

760-966-4900

"When in doubt, go to the library"

--Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

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