Focusing On Literacy

Literacy traditionally has been the ability to decode a text and write a sentence. If a student can read a paragraph or write their name, we check the box and assume they are literate. But, is this enough and whose responsibility is it to teach literacy?

To build a truly inclusive classroom where no learner is left behind, we must expand our definition of literacy:

1. Reading: Not just calling out words on a page, but developing comprehension and inference so pupils actually understand the text.
2. Writing: Giving pupils the tools—from foundational spelling to structural writing frames—to express their own original thoughts.
3. Speaking (Oracy): Creating a “culture of speech” where pupils learn to articulate their ideas aloud with confidence.
4. Listening: Training pupils to actively listen, process instructions, and engage meaningfully with the ideas of others.

It is the responsibility of all teachers, no matter what age group or subject taught, to ensure that all the students in our class have the best opportunity to be literate.

Now, think the following questions:

1. Do you think teaching literacy is important? Why/why not?
2. What do you do to promote literacy in the classroom? What else could you do?
3. What help do you need to promote literacy?
4. Do you think about your own literacy? How do you make sure that the language you use is clear to the students?