There are many different ways to approach literacy instruction. The best practices in literacy instruction can vary according to the students, environmental factors, grade, experience level and more. Because communication is an essential aspect of human life, the relationship between “spoken” expression (oral or sign) and written language is key to socialization, emotional development and mental health.
Literacy encompasses speaking, listening, reading and critical thinking. Literacy in young children responds to their development and ability to think and express themselves, while literacy in older children can further learning and comprehension skills.
The key to executing the best practices in literacy instruction is the teacher’s own ability to read and write. The most exemplary literacy educators can translate skills and knowledge related to phonics, vocabulary, fluency, structure and comprehension into accessible concepts for their students.
Many literacy instructors incorporate the following best practices into their own plans and strategies.
Text Matters
The texts that students read and comprehend during their literacy instruction should mirror their abilities and, in most cases, challenge them to develop further. Easier texts that students can read fluently and understand well help build confidence and ability. Incorporating harder texts, specifically later in the sessions, incorporates skills like research and critical thinking that are essential to being able to strengthen literacy skills. Incorporating different genres of texts that use language in different ways is also an effective way to build both reading and writing skills in students.
Individualized and Explicit Instruction
Each student and group of students come to literacy instruction with different sets of skills. Teachers should provide explicit instruction that meets students at their levels, while also incorporating different strategies for building skill. This can include building vocabulary, structural analysis and context clues.
Time Is Essential
Giving students individual time that not only encourages them but also speaks to their specific needs is a great way to engage their interests in literacy. Asking individual questions concerning their understanding of the texts and the lessons in general can build confidence and interest in reading, writing and language.
Language Is Multifaceted
As mentioned, literacy incorporates different facets of language. Reading is an important skill. Writing is essential. Verbal expression is a key aspect of the human experience. Incorporating all of these pieces into literacy instruction can provide students with a deeper understanding of how language works.
Planning Is Key
Planning seems like an obvious best practice. Going into a lesson in literacy without a plan may result in wasted time, frustration and disengagement. Lesson planning asks the teacher or instructor to think about what the purpose of each lesson is and what the key goals are both in the short and long term. Lesson plans should include understanding what students know beforehand, what they need to gain during instruction and how they are going to retain the skills and information afterward.
Literacy Builds Community
Literacy instruction should involve all aspects of a community. Putting literacy and language skills into the context of the everyday is essential to imparting its importance. Involving families, communities and the school at large to engage in literacy is key to retention and long-term development. Contests, school and community-wide programs and more can achieve this.