Ø How
is literacy defined?
Traditionally, literacy means to be able to read
and write. Harrison’s 21st century definition of literacy
includes the receptive and expressive language
attributes listed below. More information about
our literacy expectations is included in
Harrison’s K-5 and Middle School Parent’s Guide
to English Language Arts. Links can be found on
our website.
|
Receptive Language Attributes |
Expressive Language Attributes |
|
Reading Attributes
|
Writing Attributes
|
|
-
decodes fluently |
-
communicates ideas for a variety of
purposes |
|
-
understands what is read |
-
organizes and develops
|
|
- reads
widely |
- uses
effective language/style |
|
|
- uses
correct/appropriate mechanics |
|
Listening Attributes |
Speaking Attributes |
|
-
is a critical and responsive
listener |
-
communicates ideas |
|
|
- uses
appropriate techniques |
|
|
- reads
expressively |
|
Viewing Attributes |
Representing Attributes |
|
- is a
critical and responsive viewer |
-
represents ideas effectively |
|
|
- uses
appropriate media and techniques |
Ø What
is the relationship between literacy and a thinking-centered curriculum?
It is almost impossible to separate
literacy skills and thinking skills. One supports the other. When students
learn how to use comprehension and communication strategies they are learning
thinking skills
Ø What
are the characteristics of instruction that
effectively address literacy in a
thinking-centered curriculum?
-
Teachers model thinking and comprehension
strategies which help students comprehend
increasingly difficult texts as they move
through the grade levels.
-
Students are given ample time to practice and
internalize skills on increasingly difficult
text.
-
Students reflect in writing and discuss the
strategies that effective readers and writers
use to communicate effectively.
-
Students reflect on their own effectiveness on
all of the literacy attributes.
-
Teachers provide students with specific feedback
about their literacy development and progress.
Ø If
you would like more information…
Literature and
Research Base:
Culham, Ruth. The Six + One Traits of
Writing. New York: Scholastic, 2003.
Fletcher, Ralph. What a Writer Needs. New
Hampshire: Heineman, 1993.
Harvey, Stephanie and Anne Goudvis.
Strategies That Work. Maine: Stenhouse,
2000.
Related Links:
http://curry.edschool.virginia.edu/go/readquest/strat/
http://www.literacy.uconn.edu/compre.htm
http://www.kent.k12.wa.us/staff/LindaJancola/6Trait/6-trait.html
http://senior.billings.k12.mt.us/6traits/
http://www.mayer.cps.k12.il.us/Strategies_that_Work/STW.htm
http://www.cyberspaces.net/6traits/
