Defining Literacy

I thought today’s discussion about defining literacy was really interesting because the entire class seemed really engaged especially since there were a lot of differing viewpoints. For me, I would say that my definition of literacy has generally remained the same after today’s discussion. I still view literacy as the abilities and skill sets that include but are not limited to reading, writing, speaking, listening and comprehension. I think my own definition is more specific and focused on the skills involved in literacy, whereas many other people in class today were coming up with broader definitions for the term. The best way I think to understand the connection between my definition and the others in the class is that mine would be almost a subset within their broader, overarching definitions. In addition, I believe, the idea that literacy is necessary to function in society does not seem a viable argument since many who are considered “illiterate” are perfectly able to live their lives. What I do agree with is that literacy is a bridge or a gateway to a more enriched and fulfilled experience as a person travels through life. I also think it is possible to be partially literate and like we discussed in class, there are different levels of literacy.

After reading the Cambourne article and watching the video of the Boston kindergarten classroom, I believe my ideal literacy learning environment would be a combination of that classroom and Cambourne’s conditions for literacy learning. I felt that all eight of those conditions were necessary components in creating a literacy learning environment that would be most beneficial for my students. I also thought that the conduct and events occurring in that kindergarten classroom were incredibly remarkable and covered many of Cambourne’s conditions; I hope that I will someday be able to establish a learning environment similar to that for my own classroom where students are engaged and immersed in literacy. In addition to these things, my literacy learning environment would include a diverse range of multicultural literature in order to enrich students’ knowledge about themselves and others. This is important because it teaches students to find value in themselves as they learn literacy and can help them engage by making connections to their own lives or between themselves and others.