Final Thoughts on Critical Literacy

After having participated in this class, I think I have a broader perspective on how to use books in the classroom. In the past, I have used books as story starters or to introduce and reinforce concepts. Now, I think my book choices will be more selective. I will try to find books that stimulate children to ask questions and to explore a text further. There are many books out there, why not use ones that can challenge students to extend their thinking?

I think one of the important messages of critical literacy is helping children understand there can be more to a book than just a story. What is the author telling us, why was this illustration chosen, what could the character have done differently, how does that change the story, what would you change about the story? These are some of the questions critical literacy challenges us to explore. Teaching children to ask what is the meaning behind a message whether it is in a book, on TV or on the Web is an important life-long skill.

I really enjoyed some of our books discussions in class. My son and I read My Dad by Anthony Browne this morning as well as The Paper Bag Princess. It was interesting to hear what other students have enjoyed reading as children or with children. I am always on the lookout for great books.