DELVING INTO CRITICAL LITERACY IN THE ELEMENTARY CLASSROOM

Abstract

There is power in the written word. However, the power behind any idea requires the reader to be judicious in its meaning. When we read any literature—a poster, billboard advertisement, newspaper article, artwork, book or play— are we being unwittingly coerced by the author’s message? In fact, we may simply be absorbing someone else’s point of view with little insight on our part. Developing critical literacy skills in students from an early age is vital and should be every teacher’s goal. When students are taught how to evaluate a text in critical terms, they are empowered to consider and analyze the influences that are shaping their thoughts and ideas. Strong critical thinking skills enable students to question and challenge attitudes, values, and beliefs that are hidden below the surface as they read or listen to an author’s message. The challenge for teachers is to help students unlock its mystery, to understand the basic intent of an author’s message. As teachers, how do we provide students with the critical literacy skills to comprehend?