Literacy

Just like we discussed in class, my definition of literacy is constantly changing. As time progresses, my definition of literacy gets longer and more intense. For example, since our society is becoming so technological advanced, I would now include the ability to be technological literate in my literacy definition. Before taking many TE classes here at Michigan State, including TE 401, my definition of literacy was simply the ability to read, write, speak and listen in an environment. After reading all of the articles this past week, I do not think I could write one definition of literacy. There are so many different aspects of literacy, causing my definition to be hundreds of pages long! For instance, in my definition, I would include the many different components of literacy. These components include comprehension, fluency, genre, sound letter knowledge, phonological awareness, and vocabulary. Additionally, I believe that if a student understands literacy, they will be able to impact their lives and the lives of others. Also, after reading the Cambourne article, I believe all of Cambourne’s conditions of learning are very important for literacy. For instance, expectations are very important to have in a classroom. Without expectations in a classroom, students have no goals for themselves and will not know what they need to accomplish by the end of the year. In addition, employment is another important condition for learning. I do not believe that learning should stop after the students leave the classroom. Learning should be a 24/7 process that continues on at home. Also, students should be able to use what they learn at school and apply it to real life situations.

My ideal literacy learning environment would be very welcoming and contain a wide variety of materials. I want my students to feel comfortable and safe in the classroom. They need to know that it is ok to take risks and no one will laugh at you if you say a wrong answer or ask a question. In my classroom, I want to contain a wide variety of books, allowing me to meet the needs of all my students. For example, after reading the Leland article, I believe it is very important to contain books of critical literature in your classroom. It is the job of the teacher to pick books that are appropriate for the grade level that they are teaching. I believe it is beneficial for children to be exposed to issues that are going on in the real world. Students are interested in different things, so I want to make sure that I have something for everyone. In addition to books, I would have computers in my classroom. Technology is become very advanced these days, and I believe it is important for every student to learn how to use a computer. Also, I would set up a private, quiet library area, allowing students who want to read independently to do so. In addition to a reading area, I would have a writing center in my classroom. Writing is a big part of literacy, and in this center I would allow students to free write stories. If children get an opportunity to write about something that interests them, they will enjoy doing so. As this class progresses, I believe that I will learn more ideas of what my literacy learning environment should look like. Finally, I know that by the end of this class, my idea of literacy will be expanded even more.