An analysis of the three literacy perspectives--interactive, response, and critical--in terms of creating a literate environment.

1. By: Amy Smith

2.  According to research, interviewing students
is critical in determining their literacy needs
(Laureate Education, 2010)
 It is important to understand a child’s literacy
background before tailoring an individual
lesson to him or her
 Several students were evaluated during this
course

3.  Struggled with reading while in Kindergarten
 Identified with hearing trouble in First Grade
 Just short of grade level at start of Second
Grade
 Exceptionally supportive home life

4.  Less than ideal home situation
 Requires lots of adult attention and support
 Readily provided a favorite author
 Hesitant to read out loud

5.  Most elementary students are underexposed
to non-fiction (Duke, 2004)
 All 2nd Grade students need experience with
various text features
◦ Photographs
◦ Captions
◦ Graphs
◦ Bold words

6.  Reading Record created
◦ Each student tracks which genres they are reading
◦ Allows them to analyze their selections
◦ Choosing a variety allows for more exposure to new
ideas
 Observed an increase in non-fiction reading

7.  Schema is important when engaging a reader
 One way to define schema is to envision a file
folder of facts and information in your brain
(Laureate Education, 2010)

8.  By engaging schema readers become much
more responsive in the classroom
 Students love being encouraged to share their
experiences
 Making the link between schema and written
texts enhances both comprehension and
retention in readers

9.  One goal of literate environments is to help
students connect to the text
 After hearing a chapter read aloud
◦ They then write in their response journals
◦ The journals allow more time to think critically
about the chapter that was read
◦ They are free to write whatever they choose

10.  Again, more time to critically think about the
chapter
 They are able to gather information and, in
their journals, apply it to real life
 Students realize literacy goes beyond simple
recall of facts
 Engaging all sides of the story will give them
tools to handle conflict (Coloroso, 1994)

11.  Interviewing students at the start of the year
is important
 Text selection is critical to a well rounded
student
◦ Can be guided by such things as a Reading Record
 Use a variety of interactive activities
 Allow ample time and opportunity for critical
thinking and responses to texts

12.  Your feedback is greatly appreciated