Question

[Wind-Wolf] learned his basic numbers by helping his father count and sort the rocks to be used in the sweat-lodge — seven rocks for a medicine sweat, say, or thirteen for the summer solstice ceremony. Which argument does this evidence best support? A. The teacher should realize that Wind-Wolf wants to learn math in a more "normal" way. B. The teacher should realize that Wind-Wolf has been helping his father sort rocks since he was a small child. C. The teacher should realize that Wind-Wolf's family forced him to work instead of attending school. D. The teacher should realize that Wind-Wolf is smart even though his culture is different.

Answer 1

The answer is/would be:
D. The teacher should realize that Wind-Wolf is smart even though his culture is different.

Answer 2

Answer: D. The teacher should realize that Wind-Wolf is smart even though his culture is different.

The excerpt presented here attempts to show that cultural differences should not be assumed to be a sign of different mental abilities. Although the teacher might not realize it, Wind-Wolf has already been exposed to the concept of numbers and counting by being immersed in his culture. Although this knowledge might not be obvious in a classroom setting, it is a sign of Wind-Wolf's ability and willingness to learn.