ABSTRACT
One of the most significant learning engagements occurred when we followed the lead of a group who mapped the journey Esperanza took and included the changes in her character as she lived through the experiences in her life. This led us to mapping our life journeys and considering how our experiences have changed us. Some students’ journeys were longer than mine as they shared events in their lives that were of significance. As each student discussed his or her journey with others in a small group, it became clear that many had experienced special challenges because of their Mexican identity. Encouraging dialogue is important to me as a teacher. Students are always thinking about things, and need an environment where they can share that thinking and make sense of it. There are many factors to consider as we make decisions about how and what we are going to teach.
