In reflecting on my past experiences in literacy classrooms, the climate and environment have varied significantly. Some classrooms exuded a sense of inclusivity and celebration of diversity, where students felt valued and represented in the books and resources available. These environments fostered a positive sense of identity and belonging among students from various cultural backgrounds. However, not all experiences have been as enriching. In some instances, the literacy classroom felt culturally monolithic, with resources and texts predominantly reflecting the perspectives of the majority culture. This lack of diversity not only limited students' exposure to different cultural experiences but also marginalized those whose identities did not align with the dominant narrative. Additionally, the diversity of classroom books and resources played a crucial role in shaping my cultural experiences in literacy classrooms. Exposure to literature from diverse authors and perspectives e...
Literacy Lesson Planning Reflecting on my academic journey, one ELAR (English Language Arts and Reading) lesson stands out vividly. It was during my junior year of high school when my English teacher, Mrs. Jackson, introduced us to the power of storytelling through spoken word poetry. Mrs. Jackson, with her contagious enthusiasm, transformed the classroom into a sanctuary of creativity. We were tasked with crafting our own spoken word pieces, delving into personal experiences, passions, and societal issues. The activity not only honed our literary skills but also fostered empathy and understanding among classmates. What made this lesson extraordinary was witnessing the raw authenticity and vulnerability of my peers as they shared their stories, each verse a testament to resilience and self-expression. For those diving into literacy lesson planning, especially pre-service educators, embracing creativity and flexibility is paramount. Rather than confining teaching to traditio...