From WZEP AM 1460
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Jeselnik says there are 9 that focuses on Islam, 8 on Christianity, 4 on Judaism and 1 on Shinto to learn what each is. The standards look at how religions are shaped, how does it contribute to the culture of the region, the roles of “The Church” in cultural history and how they reflect governmental structures.
The unit in question actually dealt with China and Japan, not Islam. It discussed medieval Japanese culture including the widespread use of kabuki theatre and haiku. The student was to write four haiku poems, two on the topic and two on anything they want. Jeselnik said this was a way to allow students to learn through different styles. He told the Board the use of assignments like haiku allows students to learn in a way to help memory. There were numerous examples in a resource book and in the textbook. There were other types of poetry including limericks and rap songs. The example was one of 18, with 16 on U.S. history and one on the slave trade.
Board member Dennis Wallace said he appreciated the amount of details and thanked Dr. Jeselnik. Member Mark Davis asked if these were part of the new standards, Jeselnik said no, these were from older ones, the Florida Standards. Anderson said the Florida Standards are from the state and they are required to teach them. Social studies is not yet under the new Florida Standards. The course is not Common Core. Kay Dailey said there is an 85% match between the Next Generation Standards and Common Core.
Resident Gordon Porter said the information did not address their objection. He said it is the statement on Islam, not the use of a haiku. He said he is opposed to Islam being taught in school when they can’t say something about Christianity. He said it is the statements, not the form of poetry. Porter said Islam has declared war against the U.S. and he opposes anything that says Allah is greater than God. Corrine Porter noted that Islam had nine points in the standards, while Christianity had less. She said we should not be encouraging young people to embrace Islam.