Literacy PDF

➔ As educators, Building and Enhancing the LITERACY of our STUDENTS is always a part of our job. ➔ As educators, we know that literacy is key to students’ success both in the classroom and beyond. What is Literacy? Literacy is the ability to read and write. Literacy is a process by...

➔ As educators, Building and Enhancing the LITERACY of our STUDENTS is always a part of our job. ➔ As educators, we know that literacy is key to students’ success both in the classroom and beyond. What is Literacy? Literacy is the ability to read and write. Literacy is a process by which one expands one's knowledge of reading and writing in order to develop one's thinking and learning for the purpose of understanding oneself and the world. Literacy is the ability to identify, understand, interpret, create, communicate and compute, using printed and written materials associated with varying contexts. Literacy involves a continuum of learning in enabling individuals to achieve their goals, to develop their knowledge and potential, and to participate fully in their community and wider society. (UNESCO, 2004; 2017). Literacy is the ability to read, view, write, design, speak and listen in a way that allows you to communicate effectively. The power of literacy lies not just in the ability to read and write, but rather in a person’s capacity to apply these skills to effectively connect, interpret and discern the intricacies of the world in which they live. Literacy has a lot of different definitions, but the goal of literacy is to prepare students with the ability to read, write, speak, and listen in a way that lets them communicate effectively and make sense of the world. Some researchers suggest that the study of "literacy" as a concept can be divided into two periods: 1. the period before 1950, when literacy was understood solely as alphabetical literacy (word and letter recognition); 2. and the period after 1950, when literacy slowly began to be considered as a wider concept and process, including the social and cultural aspects of reading and writing and functional literacy. Definitions of TERMS Traditional literacy Functional literacy Emergent literacy ★ Traditional literacy - refers to one’s ability to read the written word to understand it and acquire its meaning. ➔ Traditional literacy is defined as "the quality of being literate; knowledge of letters; condition in respect to education, esp. ability to read and write" ➔ It is the building block for all other literacies; without it, they would be impossible to master. (OED Online, "literacy," 2nd ed.). ➔ Traditional literacy refers to the ability to read and write in a language, as well as having a general knowledge and understanding of 1. grammar,2. punctuation, and 3. spelling. This form of literacy has been the foundation of education for centuries and is considered essential for functioning effectively in society. Traditional literacy skills are typically taught in schools and are essential for academic success and future opportunities. The following are skills and competencies in traditional literacy: (READING, WRITING, SPEAKING, LISTENING) - VIEWING 1. Reading comprehension: The ability to understand and interpret written text, including main ideas, supporting details, and inferences. 2. Writing skills: The ability to communicate effectively through written language, including grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and organization. 3. Vocabulary: A strong vocabulary is essential for understanding written text and expressing ideas clearly in writing. 4. Spelling: The ability to spell words correctly is important for effective communication and  avoiding misunderstandings. 5. Grammar: Understanding and using correct grammar is essential for clear and coherent writing. ★ Functional literacy - makes the person function effectively through his engagement in all activities. ➔ Refers to the capacity of a person to engage in all those activities in which literacy is required for effective function of his or her group and community and also for enabling him or her to continue to use reading, writing and calculation for his or her own and the community’s development. ➔ Functional literacy refers to the ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in a way that enables individuals to function in society and achieve their goals. It goes beyond basic reading and writing skills and includes the ability to understand and use information in a variety of contexts, such as at work, in the community, and in personal life. Functional literacy also involves: 1. critical thinking, 2. problem-solving, and 3. decision-making skills that enable individuals to interpret and analyze written material, make informed decisions, and communicate effectively with others. It is about using literacy skills in real-world situations to navigate the complexities of modern life. ➔ Functional literacy is an important aspect of lifelong learning and is essential for individuals to participate fully in society, engage in civic activities, and pursue educational and career opportunities. ➔ It is closely linked to economic empowerment, social inclusion, and overall well-being. ★ Emergent literacy - refers to a child’s experiences in reading and writing which begins at birth even before he is able to read and write. ➔ Emergent Literacy is based on an assumption that a child acquires some knowledge about language, reading and writing even before attending any formal education. ➔ Emergent literacy is the term used to describe the reading and writing experiences of young children before they learn to write and read conventionally (Teale & Sulzby, 1986). ➔ The early signs of reading and writing demonstrated by young children, even before they begin to take formal instruction to reading and writing ➔ Emergent literacy refers to the skills, knowledge, and behaviors that precede and develop into conventional literacy. It encompasses the early stages of language and literacy development in young children, typically from birth to age five, before they begin formal instruction in reading and writing. ➔ Emergent literacy includes a range of skills and experiences that lay the foundation for later reading and writing success. This can include oral language development, phonological awareness (awareness of the sounds of language), print awareness (understanding that print carries meaning), alphabet knowledge, and early writing skills. Components of Emergent Literacy ★ Phonological awareness: the ability to recognize and manipulate the sounds in spoken language, such as rhyming, blending, and segmenting sounds ★ Print awareness: an understanding of the way print works, including knowledge of letters, words, and sentences, and the ability to track print from left to right. ★ Alphabet knowledge: recognition of letters and their sounds, as well as understanding the relationship between letters and sounds in words ★ Vocabulary development: the ability to understand and use a wide range of words and their meanings ★ Narrative skills: the ability to understand and tell stories, including understanding story structure and sequencing events ★ Oral language skills: the ability to communicate effectively through speaking and listening, including the ability to understand and use complex sentences and syntax  ★ Background knowledge: the knowledge and experiences a child brings to the reading process, which can help them make connections with the text and understand the content better ★ Motivation and interest: a child's desire to engage with literacy activities, including reading and writing, which can influence their willingness to practice and develop their literacy skills. Influences on Emergent Literacy There are several influences on emergent literacy development, including: 1. Home environment: The literacy-rich environment at home, including exposure to books, reading aloud, and opportunities for writing and storytelling, can have a significant impact on a child's emergent literacy skills. 2. Socioeconomic status: Children from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may have less access to books and literacy materials, which can affect their emergent literacy development. 3. Parental involvement: The level of parental involvement in a child's literacy development, such as reading together, providing access to books, and engaging in literacy activities, can greatly influence emergent literacy skills. 4. Early childhood education: Quality early childhood education programs that emphasize literacy skills and provide opportunities for reading and writing can support children's emergent literacy development. 5. Peer interactions: Interactions with peers, such as storytelling, reading together, and engaging in literacy-related play, can also influence emergent literacy skills. 6. Language exposure: Exposure to a rich and varied vocabulary, as well as opportunities to engage in meaningful conversations and storytelling, can support language development and emergent literacy skills. 7. Cultural influences: Cultural factors, such as the importance placed on literacy and storytelling within a particular culture, can influence a child's emergent literacy development. Activities that promote emergent literacy include reading to children, engaging in conversations, singing songs, playing with letters and sounds, and providing opportunities for children to explore and manipulate written language. By fostering emergent literacy skills, parents, caregivers, and educators can help children develop a strong foundation for future literacy success. Traditional Literacy Versus New Literacies ➔ The meaning of literacy has evolved through time. From being simply known as “the ability to read and write”, literacy is now viewed as inclusive of other skills needed for one to cope in this fast-paced world. ➔ Traditional literacy refers to the ability to read, write, and understand written text in print form. This has been the focus of education for many years and is still seen as a crucial skill in today's society. ➔ On the other hand, new literacies refer to the ability to navigate and critically evaluate digital texts, multimedia, and information accessed through technology. 1. One key difference between traditional literacy and new literacies is the medium through which information is communicated. Traditional literacy focuses on print materials such as books, newspapers, and magazines, while new literacies encompass a wide range of digital platforms and technologies, including social media, websites, blogs, and podcasts. 2. Another difference is the skills and strategies needed to effectively engage with and understand information. Traditional literacy skills include decoding, comprehension, and critical thinking when reading and analyzing text. New literacies require additional skills such as digital navigation, media literacy, and the ability to evaluate the credibility and reliability of online sources. 3. AUDIENCE – LIMITED / GLOBAL In today's rapidly changing digital world, new literacies are becoming increasingly important for individuals to effectively communicate, collaborate, and engage with information. While traditional literacy skills are still vital, educators and society as a whole are recognizing the need to incorporate new literacies into education to prepare students for the challenges and opportunities of the digital age. Overall, traditional literacy and new literacies are both valuable and necessary skills in today's society. While traditional literacy provides a strong foundation for communication and understanding, new literacies are essential for navigating and critically evaluating the vast amount of digital information available. By embracing both traditional and new literacies, individuals can develop a well-rounded set of skills that will enable them to thrive in a constantly evolving technological landscape. New trends are introduced in today’s world that need new literacies that students should acquire. Without these skills, students are left to memorize facts, recall details, and relegate their educational experience to passivity. In the 21st century, students’ skills such as collaboration, digital literacy, critical thinking, and problem-solving should be taught by the school to help students respond to the powerful demands of the real world. The 21st century literacies (NEW LITERACIES) Globalization and Multicultural literacy Social Literacy Media Literacy Financial Literacy Cyber/ Digital literacy Eco-literacy Arts and Creativity literacy REASONS WHY acquiring new literacies is of utmost importance in the 21st century: 1. Digital Age: The rapid advancement of technology has transformed the way we communicate, access information, and engage with the world. New literacies, such as digital literacy, information literacy, media literacy, and technological literacy, enable individuals to effectively navigate and critically evaluate digital resources, tools, and platforms. This is crucial for staying informed, making informed decisions, and engaging in meaningful communication. 2. Access to Information: With the advent of the internet and digital technologies, information is now readily available at our fingertips. However, the challenge lies in discerning accurate, reliable, and relevant information from a vast sea of data. Acquiring information literacy skills helps individuals evaluate sources, verify facts, and critically analyze information to make informed decisions. 3. Globalization and Cultural Awareness: In an increasingly interconnected and globalized world, individuals need to develop cultural literacy and global competence. This entails understanding and appreciating different cultures, perspectives, and ways of life. By acquiring cultural literacy, individuals can engage in respectful cross-cultural communication, collaboration, and problem-solving. 4. Creativity and Innovation: New literacies also foster creativity and innovation. By developing skills such as creative thinking, problem-solving, and digital creativity, individuals can generate new ideas, solutions, and approaches to address complex challenges. These skills are highly valued in the 21st century, where innovation and adaptability are key drivers of success. 5. Lifelong Learning: In a rapidly changing world, the ability to learn, unlearn, and relearn is crucial. Acquiring new literacies helps individuals become independent, self-directed learners who can continuously acquire new knowledge and skills throughout their lives. This is especially important as the nature of work and careers evolve, requiring individuals to adapt and update their skills to remain relevant in the job market. Overall, acquiring new literacies is essential for individuals to thrive in the 21st century. It equips them with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to navigate digital landscapes, engage with diverse perspectives, think critically, and innovate. By developing these literacies, individuals can effectively participate in the contemporary world and contribute to positive social, economic, and cultural change. What is 21st-century learning? ⌦ 21st-century learning refers to the teaching and learning strategies, skills, and technologies that are necessary for students to succeed in the modern world. ⌦ This type of learning focuses on developing critical thinking, creativity, communication, collaboration, and digital literacy skills to prepare students for success in a rapidly changing, technology-driven society. ⌦ It often involves student-centered and project-based learning approaches that encourage active participation and real-world problem-solving. ⌦ Additionally, 21st-century learning emphasizes the use of technology and digital tools to enhance learning experiences and facilitate communication and collaboration among students and teachers. ⌦ 21st-century learning is about preparing students/learners for the challenges and opportunities of the modern world by equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and competencies needed to thrive in a global, interconnected, and rapidly evolving society. Characteristics of a 21st Century Teacher ⌦ A 21st-century teacher is an educator who is equipped with the skills, knowledge, and mindset needed to effectively teach and empower students in today's rapidly evolving world. ⌦ These teachers are characterized by their ability to adapt to new technologies, engage diverse learners, foster critical thinking and creativity, and prepare students for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. ⌦ In essence, a 21st-century teacher is a dynamic, forward-thinking, and student-centered educator who embraces innovation, collaboration, and lifelong learning to prepare students for success in the rapidly changing and interconnected world of the 21st century. Some key traits and characteristics of a 21st-century teacher include 1. Technological proficiency: ⇨ Technologically savvy: 21st-century teachers are comfortable using technology as a tool to enhance teaching and learning, engage students, and provide relevant and meaningful educational experiences. 2. Lifelong learner: They are committed to ongoing professional development, staying current on best practices in education, and continuously improving their own teaching skills and methods. 3. Flexibility and adaptability: ⇨ Adaptive They are able to adjust their teaching strategies to meet the diverse needs and learning styles of their students, as well as respond to changes in curriculum, technology, and educational trends. 4. Collaboration: ⇨ Collaborative 21st-century teachers work collaboratively with colleagues, parents, and community partners to create a supportive learning environment and meet the individual needs of all students. 5. Culturally responsive: They recognize and value diversity in their classrooms, incorporating multicultural perspectives and experiences into their teaching practice to create an inclusive and equitable learning environment for all students. 6. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills: ⇨ Critical thinker 21st-century teachers encourage students to think critically, analyze information, evaluate sources, and solve complex problems independently and collaboratively. 7. Creativity and innovation: ⇨ Creative They promote creativity and innovation by providing opportunities for students to explore and express ideas, experiment with new approaches, and think outside the box. 8. Global perspective: ⇨ Globally Competent They expose students to different cultures, perspectives, and global issues, helping them develop a broader understanding of the world and become informed and empathetic global citizens. 9. Social and emotional intelligence: ⇨ Emotionally intelligent They understand the social and emotional needs of their students, build positive relationships, and create a supportive and caring classroom environment that fosters emotional well-being and academic success. 10. Reflective practice: ⇨ Reflective They regularly reflect on their teaching practice, seek feedback from students and colleagues, and use data and evidence to inform their instructional decisions and improve student outcomes. The 21st Century Skills The 21st-century skills refer to a set of abilities and competencies that are essential for success in today's rapidly changing world. These 21st-century skills are considered essential for success in school, work, and life in the increasingly complex and interconnected global society of today. These skills are often grouped into four categories: 1. Critical thinking and problem-solving:  ⇨ This involves the ability to analyze information, make informed decisions, and creatively solve complex problems. 2. Communication and collaboration: ⇨ Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, are crucial in a globalized world. ⇨ The ability to work well with others, share ideas, and collaborate on projects is also highly valued. 3. Creativity and innovation: ⇨ The ability to think outside the box, generate new ideas, and find innovative solutions is essential in today's fast-paced and competitive environment. 4. Digital literacy: ⇨ In an age where technology is integral to nearly every aspect of life, having the ability to navigate digital tools, evaluate online information, and use technology effectively is crucial. 21st Century Skills (Categories) A. Learning skills (the four C’s) teach students about the mental processes required to adapt and improve upon a modern work environment. More educators know about these skills because they are universal needs for any career. The 4 C's of 21st Century Skills are: 1. Critical thinking: Finding solutions to problems 2. Creativity: Thinking outside the box 3. Collaboration: Working with others 4. Communication: Talking to others B. Literacy skills (IMT) focuses on how students can discern facts, publishing outlets, and the technology behind them. There’s a strong focus on determining trustworthy sources and factual information to separate it from the misinformation that floods the Internet. The three 21st Century literacy skills are: 5. Information literacy: Understanding facts, figures, statistics, and data 6. Media literacy: Understanding the methods and outlets in which information is published 7. Technology literacy: Understanding the machines that make the Information Age possible C. Life skills (FLIPS) take a look at intangible elements of a student’s everyday life. These intangibles focus on both personal and professional qualities. The five 21st Century life skills are: 8. Flexibility: Deviating from plans as needed 9. Leadership: Motivating a team to accomplish a goal 10. Initiative: Starting projects, strategies, and plans on one’s own 11. Productivity: Maintaining efficiency in an age of distractions 12. Social skills: Meeting and networking with others for mutual benefit Other important 21st-century skills include: Global awareness: Understanding and appreciating different cultures, perspectives, and the interconnectedness of the world. Social and emotional intelligence: The ability to understand and manage one's own emotions, as well as empathize and communicate effectively with others. Civic and ethical responsibility: Understanding one's role in society and demonstrating ethical behavior and decision-making. How to Teach 21st Century Skills and Knowledge Teaching 21st-century skills and knowledge requires a shift in traditional teaching methods to more student-centered and interactive approaches. Here are some strategies to effectively teach these skills: 1. Project-based learning: Provide students with real-world projects and problems to solve that require critical thinking, collaboration, and innovation. This allows students to apply their knowledge in meaningful ways and develop important skills. 2. Use technology: Integrate technology tools and resources into your lessons to enhance learning and engagement. This can include interactive presentations, online research, educational apps, and virtual collaboration tools. 3. Collaborative learning: Encourage teamwork and group projects to promote communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. Provide opportunities for students to work together, share ideas, and learn from each other. 4. Inquiry-based learning: Encourage students to ask questions, explore topics independently, and find answers through research and investigation. This promotes curiosity, critical thinking, and self-directed learning. 5. Cross-curricular connections: Integrate different subjects and disciplines to help students see the interconnectedness of knowledge and develop a holistic understanding of complex issues. This promotes interdisciplinary thinking and problem-solving. 6. Develop communication skills: Provide opportunities for students to practice oral and written communication skills through presentations, debates, writing assignments, and group discussions. Offer feedback and guidance to help students improve their communication abilities. 7. Foster creativity: Encourage creative thinking and innovation by providing open-ended tasks, opportunities for artistic expression, and brainstorming sessions. Allow for multiple solutions and celebrate originality. 8. Emphasize global awareness: Integrate global perspectives and issues into your curriculum to help students develop empathy, cultural understanding, and a sense of interconnectedness with the world. Use resources such as international literature, films, and guest speakers to expand students' horizons. 9. Provide opportunities for self-reflection: Encourage students to reflect on their learning experiences, identify their strengths and areas for growth, and set goals for improvement. This self-awareness helps students take ownership of their learning and development. 10. Model 21st century skills: As a teacher, demonstrate and role model the skills and attitudes you want to instill in your students. Be adaptable, open to new ideas, and willing to learn alongside your students. Your own example can inspire and empower your students to develop and apply 21st-century skills in their own lives. By integrating these strategies into your teaching practice, you can help prepare students for success in the dynamic and interconnected world of the 21st century.