Multiple Literacies

"The concept of multiple literacies provides an analytic heuristic with which to consider the rande of literacy practices in which ELLs engage across contexts in different languages and various modalities," (p.337, Haneda). As an educator we need to remember that our students whom speak multiple languages have a wide range of literacies which they engage in outside of school. We also need to remember that the literacy practices from range from one culture to another. 


I think it is important to provide children the opportunity to use their first language in school as well as the other languages that they are learning. It can be frustrating only be allowed to use English in school when you are not fluent in its uses or are struggling with the different concepts. I believe that for older students, we could give them an opportunity to create a blog in school. This can be done in which ever language they would like to use. By blogging about particular topics or freely, students can practice using their language. 


"There are yet other children who fail to become fully literate in either first language or second language," (p337, Haneda). How can we expect children to be literate in English when they have yet to master their native language? For this reason we can not ban use of their native language in school. Their are skills that these children need to learn in their first language before we can expect them to comprehend and be successful using a second language, especially when the rules of a second language can be very different and challenging to master. 


Some children receive extra support outside of class from parents, siblings, and extended family. I think that by creating a support system for ELL students they could become more successful. Not all students have the support system outside of school. Perhaps through the use of peer mentoring or after school activities, students would receive extra help that they need. 


Learning experiences need to be personally relevant to students. In order to make sure that students are connected with the school work they are doing, we need to provide them with things that are of interest to them. I think that continually taking inventory of your students interests, likes, and dislikes will make this a lot easier to do. This will make selecting works of literature for your students to read a more rewarding process. Students want to read about things that interest them. It is important for them to read many other things as well, but this will help them foster literacy in a way that captivates them and motivates them. 


I also want to be able to encourage my students to share their literacy with the class. By this I mean, tell stories or write poems in their native language. Through the use of short presentations students will be able to practice their literacy skills and feel confident do so. They should feel safe in their environment so that they will feel comfortable opening up and expressing themselves. Our students should want to share their lives with us.