Work with a partner, open this article from the Wall Street Journal and together, find answers to the following questions. It is not necessary to write down your answers. As you find them, discuss how you feel about each answer with your partner.
Tiger Mother
Amy Chua and her daughters.
*Please note, some of the opinions shared by Amy Chua may be viewed as insensitive or as reinforcing racial stereotypes. Please understand that these opinions are of Amy Chua and not the creators of smrt.
- Based on the title of the article and the contents of its first paragraph, what controversial beliefs is Amy Chua known for?
- What is the difference between strict Western parents and Chinese parents when it comes to making their children practice instruments?
- How do opinions on academic success differ between Western and Chinese parents?
- According to Chua, when do children of Chinese parents have fun?
- What is the significant difference between Chinese and Western parents in terms of how they are allowed to treat their children?
- What is a clear difference between the way Western and Chinese children view their parents?
- Why aren't Chinese teenagers allowed to take part in social activities with their friends?
- Summarize with your partner the story Chua recounts about her daughter's refusal to practice the piano. How does this exemplify the Chinese parenting model?
Exercise
Open the exercise and make a copy. Listen to the following CBC radio interview and answer the questions in the document.
Watch the following debate about parenting. Which side do you agree with?
A Tiger Mother
Amy Chua explains how she taught their daughters.