I've always been taught that race and culture are socially constructed ideas, however they are undeniably the means through which we are classified and divided. I've been stuck on this issue in regards to teaching ever since I read The Silenced Dialogue. The reason why I'm stuck on this is my uncertainty in how to reach people of all "races" and "cultures" in the classroom. If, according to Lisa Delpit, black students (in general, or even stereotypically perhaps...) need different instruction or respond better to different types of instruction, then how do I accomodate everyone in my classroom? I like to consider myself very open-minded and open to different cultures (mannerisms, language, etc.) but worry about my ability to relate to every student. I guess that being open-minded doesn't necessarily mean the ability to relate to everyone but the ability to try to relate. What do you think are some ways to improve this relationship? What experiences have you all had with this?