The functional definition of literacy is the ability to read and write. This definition, however, can be considered too simplistic in the complex world in which we live. In order to engage fully, people need to read and interpret visual, digital and printed material with discernment and insight.
The English Literacy Skills course has been developed to enhance competencies beyond mere reading and writing of words. To be able to read with comprehension, people need to make assessments of newspapers, novels, comics, magazines, films, reference material, and even websites. Having the ability of discernment means engaging with printed and digital material at both an intellectual and an emotional level – evaluating and appraising the information that is being presented.
- To be able to engage fully, printed and digital material needs to be understood
- completely. This means understanding:
- The structure of sentences
- How words and phrases are put together
- The use of punctuation marks
- How emotive language can be used to manipulate people
- The difference between facts and opinions
- The use of figurative language
- Stereotypes
When a person is fully engaged, it means the person understands the material that is being presented, can make connections between ideas and can evaluate effectively. This translates into self-confidence and a heightened sense of self-esteem and self-worth. The person can contribute meaningfully to discussions, can write with purpose and can sift through information to identify what is valid and what is invalid.
- Teacher: Kathy Martin