Who We Are
Who We Are
AGE
TRAUMA-INFORMED TEACHING
APPROPRIATENESS
Memoirs that are considered 12+ do not contain any graphic violence, sexual violence or sexual content. Generally shorter and less complex than our other memoirs, books in the 11+ category are perfect for students who are ending elementary school or who are starting high school, but are also appropriate for older readers. Memoirs that are considered 14+ might have some descriptions of graphic violence or sexual content. They may be a bit longer and have a higher level of complexity than those in the 11+ category. The 14+ category is suitable for more experienced high school students. Memoirs that are considered 16+ are usually longer and more complex, and might also contain descriptions of graphic violence, sexual violence or sexual content. We recom- mend these books to students who are about to graduate high school or start post- secondary education. 11+
Although we want as many students as possible to read our memoirs, not every story will work for every student. Due to the traumatic and often horrific nature of the authors’ experiences surviving the Holocaust, the memoirs contain sensitive material, which sometimes includes violence and sexual content. It is our policy not to excise these passages; we maintain the integrity of the survivors’ accounts, editing only for clarity, consistency and historical accuracy. Our memoirs have been classified by age according to content and not by reading level. While our books do have a recom- mended minimum age, there is no upper age limit. You are the best evaluator of a memoir’s appropriateness. We strongly urge you to use discretion and note the age recommendation icons alongside each book listed, as well as the mature content notice where applicable. We also recommend that you read any memoir you intend to provide to your students.
Canadian students come from all walks of life. Some students may have experienced or are currently experiencing some form of trauma in their lives. Your students’ diverse backgrounds will inform the way you teach sensitive subjects. Studying the Holocaust includes exploring themes such as inadequate housing, food dis- parity, education restrictions and limitations, illness and disease, racism and discrimina- tion, violence and abuse (physical, sexual and emotional), death, murder, escaping or fleeing dangerous situations, as well as war and other significant personal traumas. Students may identify with one or more of these themes as a result of their own experiences. When teaching about subjects such as the Holocaust, it is beneficial to approach the content with a proactive mindset and to embed proper supports into the planning of any unit.
Trauma comes in many forms and may not always be known or visible. While you do not need to be an expert on trauma, here are some things you can do as an educator to support your students:
• Know your students •
• Be thoughtful about the chosen content and methodology • • Be present, available and observant throughout the unit of study and beyond • • Foster opportunities for choice, collaboration and connection • • Check in frequently with your students • • Avoid assumptions • • Be prepared with resources • • Bring students safely in and safely out of the learning space • • Establish a safe space in the classroom •
These strategies are essential for some but good for all . For more information on trauma-informed teaching, explore the following resources: https://linktr.ee/hsmp
6
7
Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online