TE 401-Lit. Noteblog 2-My Definition of Literacy

My definition of literacy has changed since we began discussing it in class and analyzing our readings. At first my definition was vague; I considered literacy as the ability to read fluently and to understand what you are reading. It also involved writing and being able to use written language properly. During class we talked about the five most important aspects of literacy; reading, writing, speaking, listening, and viewing. I had not even considered viewing in my previous definition. After talking with the class I realized that my definition of literacy needed to include things such as applying what you read and write about to other environments, and being able to critically analyze a text. Most importantly it now includes the ability to adapt to changes. What is expected of the writer is bound to change in the many writing circumstances that they will be involved in. Being able to adapt to changes and new expectations is extremely important for a successful reader/writer. Another important aspect of literacy for me is using it to impact others. Weather it is sharing facts, teaching someone or any other form of enlightenment, using literacy to impact others is important. My ideal literacy learning environment definitely includes critical literacy. I really enjoyed the article on critical literacy by Leland. It makes so much sense to talk about issues of race, social class and other worldly things that children have not had exposure to before. The article is evidence that familiarizing children with these topics makes them more compassionate human beings. The students are no longer just listening to happy stories but they are looking at texts more analytically. I think it is so wonderful that the type of literature the students are exposed to can actually alter their classroom behavior and opinion on what is right not only in their classroom but also out in the real world. I hope to include a lot of critical literacy in my future classroom. The environment in which my students will be engaging in literacy activities should be inviting and comfortable and should have a positive attitude toward reading and learning. I liked how in the video of the Boston school so many parts of the daily routine were tied to literacy. The question of the day related to the read aloud, the sensory table related to the theme for the day which was also brought up in the poetry unit. I want to emphasize these literacy connections in my future classroom as well. I hope that through this class I can continue to build upon my definition of literacy.