Jimarcus is an African American high school junior. Helikes his environmental science course, but is one of only two African American students in the class. He makes good grades on homework and in-class activities, but seldom volunteers answers. Mr. Cooke, his teacher, notices that Jimarcus uses spare time to read about environmental issues, and Jimarcus told Mr. Cooke about conducting his own

Question

small projects out of class. Mr. Cooke concludes that Jimarcus has a passion for this area of study, though African American students seldom take the class or succeed in science classes at this high school. Today the class takes the mid-term exam, and Mr. Cooke notices that Jimarcus acts anxious. He asks Jimarcus if he's ready, and Jimarcus says he's not sure. During the exam, Jimarcus continues to act nervous. He is the last student to turn in his paper.

How would you explainJimarcus's behavior?
What might the teacher do to help him overcome this behavior?

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Suggested Response:
Jimarcus exhibits the signs of stereotype threat. He appears to be aware that he is in the slim minority of African American students in the class. He seldom volunteers answers during class discussions, indicating that he lacks confidence in his own abilities. His anxiety about the exam seems to reflect apprehension about confirming a stereotype that African Americans in this high school do not succeed in science fields.
Mr. Cooke might look for self-affirmation tasks for such a student. Jimarcus has conducted his own out-of-class projects, and Mr. Cooke might look for opportunities for Jimarcus to talk about one of his projects.
Mr. Cooke might help Jimarcus develop a positive mindset of growth and improvement.Mr. Cooke might provide opportunities for Jimarcus to challenge himself, dig deeper, and develop a sense of expertise about areas of particular interest to him. This strategy should help Jimarcus realize that he is capable of learning and affirm his independent efforts.
Mr. Cooke might help Jimarcus reframe his view of exams. If Jimarcus looks at an exam as an opportunity to see how much he knows rather than how his score compares to the scores of other students, he may view the exam as a personal challenge rather than a threat.
In his teaching, Mr. Cooke might also introduce role models that are African American. This strategy may help all students recognize that anyone can succeed in the field, not just a specific strata or profile. It may validate Jimarcus' s interest and ability and help him feel confident about excelling in environmental science.
Text Reference: Ethnicity and Race in Teaching and Learning