Blog #2

    My definition of literacy has always been the ability to read and write. However, it has changed significantly since our last class discussion where we talked about the pros and cons of our group definitions. I now think that literacy is more or less the ability to successfully extract meaning from a text whether it be written, spoken, or seen. Literacy is much more than just being able to read. This definition could cause trouble if we make it too vague. Just because a child is in fourth grade and can not read, does that necessarily make them illiterate? It is a tricky situation.
    My ideal literacy learning environment would cater to all children. Students who come from different backgrounds, have slower learning abilities or are special needs would be able to benefit from my literacy instruction. The first reading we did for this week talked about how teachers must be prepared to teach a variety of literacy strategies so that all children can benefit. This includes being able to challenge the students who might be ahead of their grade level. I would hope that in my classroom someday, I am able to help all children succeed in an equivalent manner.
    My mentor teacher does a pretty good job with the way she handles literacy. I have never actually been there to see the kids do their reading groups, but I do know that there are six groups and the kids are divided up based upon their ability to read. The two struggling groups work with the teacher and the intern so they can receive the maximum amount of help. The other groups work with one another to help each other out as well as practice reading at their own pace. When my students do class activities, the teacher encourages all students to sound out words and write sentences at the bottom of their paper. This is good practice for the students who might be ahead of the others. It is not acceptable for any student to be sitting without an assignment because they finished early. My mentor teacher also does Read to Self. Each child has a bag with their name on it along with four books inside that fit the child's reading level. Once a day for 20 minutes this kids sit silently and read their books. I feel that these strategies promote literacy learning for all abilities in the classroom.