What is Literacy?

When first asked to define literacy, automatically I thought to myself: literacy is the ability to read and write. Plain, simple and to the point. However, as our class started to define it within small groups then together as an entire class, I started to modify the meaning a bit. Although literacy does encompass the ability to read and write, it involves much more than that.

Within my group, we discussed how literacy really is the foundation for all other learning (I am agreeing with you Jess!). Thinking about all the aspects of literacy such as concepts of print and phonemic awareness these form the base of all the knowledge we build throughout our schooling. Through these concepts we learn what each letter is as well as letter-sound relationships they have. Once we understand letters and can recall them, we learn to recognize and identify them in text and other various ways. It is only after understanding these basic principles that we can learn anything else. It is literacy that makes learning possible in all other areas.

In an ideal classroom setting, I would have access to an unlimited amount of books, ranging all reading levels and abilities. My classroom would be highly interactive, where learning games would be implemented and encouraged. I truly believe students learn best from interacting or experiencing their learning in visual ways. I would also love to create an atmosphere enabling students to feel safe and positive about learning, even if they are not the best readers. My main goal would to create a support system for my students and to encourage them to do the best they can. As the teacher in a literacy learning environment, I would also strongly encourage my students to have reading buddies with older students. This would be beneficial for all students, regardless of learning level. 

Another aspect of my ideal learning environment for my students would be to incorporate ways for students with disabilities to be accommodated. With Special Ed being my focus, I would make sure to provide a very structured layout and learning plan for my students so they can and prosper in literacy at their own level. Some things I may include in my classroom may be interactive computer software, games, learning tools (digital books, etc.). Basically I want all my students to feel comfortable.