TOPIC: Unit 1 – Introduction of Key Concepts (Part 1)

Overview

This topic covers Unit 1 – Introduction to Key Concepts (Part 1), which introduces
the foundational concepts of traditional and 21st-century literacies. Lesson 1 focuses on
traditional literacies, emphasizing essential skills such as reading, writing, and
arithmetic as the basis for effective communication and learning. Lesson 2 explores
various 21st-century literacies, including global, multicultural, social, media, financial,
cyber, eco, and arts literacy, which are crucial for navigating a rapidly evolving and
interconnected world. Lesson 3 discusses the features of modern education,
highlighting personalized learning, equity, student-centered approaches, and the
integration of technology, while also emphasizing teacher development and inclusivity.

Objectives:
At the end of the allotted time, the students are expected to:
understand the different roles of traditional literacies in education;
apply appropriate literacies to address challenges effectively and responsibly;
and
appreciate the importance of equity, inclusivity, and ongoing teacher
professionalization in creating a positive and effective learning environment
for all students.
Inculcate Concept

Lesson 1: Definitions of Traditional Literacies

I. Introduction

Traditional literacy refers to the foundational skills of reading and writing. This is the
core ability that enables us to understand and communicate using written language.
It forms the basis for all other types of literacy, including functional, emergent, and
basic literacy skills.

II. Four Traditional Literacies

1. Traditional Literacy - It is the ability to read the written word to gain

understanding and meaning.
2. Functional Literacy - It is primarily about skills or applied knowledge.
3. Early Literacy/Emergent Literacy - It refers to the development of skills
students need in order to transition from learning to read, to reading to learn.
These skills include vocabulary, phonics, language, and numeracy, to name a
few.
 Print Motivation - helps the child be interested in and enjoy books and
begin reading books early, even when your child is a newborn.
 Print Awareness - helps your child notice print, know how to handle a
book and how to follow the words on a page. Being familiar with printed
language helps children feel comfortable with books and understand that
print is useful.
 Letter Knowledge - your child will know letters are different from each
other, know their names and sounds and recognize letters everywhere.
 Vocabulary - teaches your child to know the names of things and Read
together every day.
 Narrative Skills - your child will be able to describe things and events and
tell stories, encourage your child to tell you about things and read favorite
books again and again.
 Phonological Awareness - your child will be able to hear and play with
smaller sounds in words. Add actions to songs to help break down
language into separate words.
4. Basic literacy and skills - It has been popularly defined as form of abilities to
read, write, and do basic arithmetic or numeracy. Barton (2006) asserts that the
 notion of basic literacy is used for the initial learning of reading and writing which
adults who have never been to school need to go through.
 Phonemic Awareness - the ability to hear, identify, manipulate, and
substitute phoneme the smallest units of sound that can differentiate
meaning in spoken words.
 Phonics - the ability to understand that there is a predictable relationship
between phonemes (sounds) and graphemes (the letters that represent
those sounds in written language) in order to associate written letters with
the sounds of spoken language
 Fluency - the ability to read text accurately, quickly, and expressively,
either to oneself or aloud.
 Vocabulary - the growing, stored compilation of words that students
understand and use in their conversation (oral vocabulary) and recognize
in print (reading vocabulary).
 Comprehension - the ability to understand, remember, and make
meaning of what has been read this is the purpose for reading.

III. The role of Traditional Literacies in Education

Traditional Literacies are essential for effective communication and participation in

society, forming the basis for further learning across all subjects and providing the
ability to access and interpret information in a conventional manner. It's the core
ability to understand and use written language effectively in a traditional school
setting.
Lesson 2: Definitions of the 21st Century Literacies

1. Globalization

Definition

 is the process of interaction and integration among people, companies, and

governments worldwide.
 is the integration of national economies through trade, investment, capital
flow, labor migration, and technology.
 is the free movement of goods, services and people across the world in a
seamless and integrated manner.
What is Global Literacy?

 aims to address issues of globalization, racism, diversity and social justice

(Guo, 2014).
 aims to empower students with knowledge and take action to make a
positive impact in the world and their local community (Guo, 2014).
According to the Ontario Ministry of Education (2015), a global citizen should display
most or all of the following characteristics:

 Respect for humans no matter their race, gender, religion or political

perspectives.
 Respect for diversity and various perspectives.
 Promoting sustainable patterns of living, consumption, and production.
 Appreciate the natural world and demonstrate respectful towards the rights
of all living things.
Importance of Globalization

1. Global village - incredibly aware of what is happening anywhere around the

world.
2. Social awareness- spreading news and facilitating globalization; keeping us up
to date and knowledgeable about current events; facilitated raising awareness
of issues, which can lead to great social change.
3. Personal communication- connected to our friends and families in various
parts of the world.
Globalization in Relation to Education

 Globalization and education then come to affect one another through mutual
goals of preparing young people for successful futures during which their
nations will grow increasingly connected.
 With globalization, some of the challenges for knowledge, education and
learning will provide today’s learners the ability to be more familiar and
comfortable with abstract concepts and uncertain situations.
 Globalization enhances the student’s ability to acquire and utilize knowledge.

2. Multicultural Literacy

 It consists of the skills and ability to identify the creators of knowledge and their
interests (Banks, 1996), to uncover the assumptions of knowledge, to view
knowledge from diverse ethnic and cultural perspective, and to use knowledge
to guided action that will create a humane and just world (Boutte, 2008).
 Brings attention to diversity, equity and social justice to foster cultural
awareness by addressing difficult issues like discrimination and oppression
towards other ethnicities (Boutte, 2008).
 According to Boutte (2008) education for multicultural literacy should help
students to develop the 21st century skills and attitudes that are needed to
become active citizens who will work towards achieving social justice within our
communities.
Multicultural + Global Literacy
How are Multicultural and Global Literacy Interconnected?

 Every classroom contains students of different race, religion, and cultural

groups. Students embrace diverse behaviors, cultural values, patterns of
practice, and communication. Yet they all share one commonality: their
educational opportunity (Guo, 2014).
 Teachers should teach their students that other cultures exist and that these
deserve to be acknowledged and respected. (Guo, 2014).
II. Social Literacy

 Children can learn literacy through social interaction between themselves and
children and/or adults in or outside school. Adults can use books, games, toys,
conversations, field trips, and stories to develop the literacy practices through
fun.
 refers to the development of social skills to interact positively in a defined environment.

Importance of Social Literacy

 Students must learn the necessary skills to communicate and widen their social
circles.
 It is more important to make sure students interact in groups.
Causes of Being a Social Illiterate
 Lack of confidence
 Learning disabilities
 Depression
Social Literacy Skills
1. Maintaining Eye contact
2. Understanding angry feelings
3. Collaborating ideas
4. Discussion
5. Ability to meet new people
In the Age of the Smartphone, Students Need Help with Social Literacy
 Today’s students have grown up with the internet, with cellphones becoming
something of an extra appendage. Many can’t make it through lunch (much less a whole
day) without checking their phones or otherwise interacting with technology. This
situation underscores the importance of educating students in what could be called
social literacy to ensure their academic and career success.

How is it changing?
In today’s changing society we have moved from encouraging a strict definition of
social skills as conversation skills to a more broad understanding of social literacy.
Today it is important to tie in technology when teaching social literacy because this is an
important feature of how individuals communicate.
Technology Can Be Used To Teach Social Literacy

1. YouTube
Students can watch videos displaying how other people communicate. They can
get in touch with all different kinds of people from all over the world. They can also
practice their own communication skills by creating their own videos and sharing it with
the YouTube world.

2. Facebook
Allows students to keep in touch with people from where ever they may be.
Students can keep in touch with family and peers through this website on personal level
through pictures and statuses and even a chat feature. One way a teacher could use
Facebook is by creating a class group to keep each other up to date about upcoming
assignment or events going on at school.

3. Google Docs
This allows a team of people to collaborate on the same page at the same time.
This can be used as an instructional strategy to encourage students to investigate,
write, and work together in discussion.
III. Media Literacy
 is the ability to identify different types of media and understand the messages
they’re sending.
 There are text messages, memes, viral videos, social media, video games,
advertising, and more. But all media shares one thing: Someone created it. And it
was created for a reason.
IV. Financial Literacy
 is the ability to understand and effectively use various financial skills, including
personal financial management, budgeting, and investing.
 Financially illiterate individuals may be more likely to accumulate unsustainable
debt burdens.
V. Cyber/ Digital Literacy
 The ability to find, evaluate, utilize, and create information using technologies
and multimedia, or digital technology in general.
 The ability to use computer technologies effectively and to simultaneously
understand the implications of those actions.
VI. Eco-Literacy
 focus on the various interactions of different elements in the environment.
 includes human activity which is essential to the achievement of a self-
sustaining community.
VII. Arts and Creativity Literacy
 can be expressed in creative ways of problem-solving and demonstrated
through the preparation of valuable works of art.
 Educators and administrators need to be more adept at the arts and
manifest creativity in a variety of activities.
 Art-infused education is a strong way to help children learn.
 is essential because it enables unique ways of viewing the world that are
not accessible in any other field of study.

Lesson 3: Features of the 21st Century Literacies

 Education in the 21st century focuses on equipping learners with the skills
needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving world. This topic highlights key elements such
as a learner-centered approach, integration of technology, collaboration, critical
thinking, adaptability, global awareness, and creativity. These skills enable students to
address challenges, embrace diversity, and innovate in a dynamic, interconnected
society.

o Learner-Centered Approach
 Focus on Individual Needs: Tailoring learning to each
student’s strengths and styles.
 Active Learning: Students actively participate, not just listen.
 Developing Learner Autonomy: Students become
independent learners.

o Integration of Technology
 Tools for Learning: Using technology for research,
collaboration, and engagement.
 Developing Digital Literacy: Students learn to use tech
responsibly and critically.
 Creating Engaging Learning Experiences: Technology
makes learning fun and interactive.

o Emphasis on Collaboration and Communication

 Teamwork and Communication Skills: Students learn to
work together and communicate effectively.
 Building Interpersonal Skills: Developing skills like listening,
empathy, and conflict resolution.
 Communication Across Cultures: Communicating effectively
with people from different backgrounds.

o Focus on Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

 Analyzing Information: Students learn to evaluate
information and identify biases.
 Developing Solutions: Students learn to identify problems
and create solutions.
 Decision-Making and Judgment: Students learn to make
informed decisions.
 o Flexibility and Adaptability
 Embracing Change: Students learn to adapt to new
situations and learn new skills.
 Resilience and Growth Mindset: Students learn to bounce
back from setbacks and believe they can improve.
 Lifelong Learning: Students develop a love for continuous
learning.

o Global Awareness
 Understanding Diverse Cultures: Students learn to
appreciate different cultures and perspectives.
 Addressing Global Issues: Students learn about global
problems and their impact.
 Global Citizenship: Students develop a sense of
responsibility for the world.

o Focus on Creativity and Innovation

 Thinking Outside the Box: Students learn to come up with
new ideas and solutions.
 Problem-Solving and Design Thinking: Students use their
creativity to solve problems.
 Entrepreneurship and Innovation: Students learn to create
new ideas and products.

Intensify Learning

Activity 1. Hand and Footprint Game

Directions: Divide the glass into two teams. Each team sends one representative per
round. Players must follow the hand/footprint sequence to cross the path. The round
ends when a player reaches the end, retrieves a card, and attempts to answer the
question. Rotate representatives after every round to ensure all members participate.
Activity 2. Mystery Box Game

Directions: Divide the players into two groups, and have a representative from each
group take turns picking a letter and answering the corresponding question. After
 answering, the representative must decide whether to keep the mystery box or give it to
the other team. The box contains points that can either benefit or harm their team’s total
score.

Activity 3. Paint Me A Picture

Directions: Divide the class into three groups. Each round, a prompt will be given, and
groups will have 15 seconds to depict the scene using only their bodies, expressions,
and poses. Once time is up, all groups must freeze in place. The facilitator will choose at
least one winner per round based on creativity, accuracy, and teamwork. Repeat with
new prompts for each round.

Assessment

Directions: Carefully read each question and select the best answer. Write your answer in
capital letters.

1. What Literacy refers to the ability to read the written word to gain understanding and
meaning?
A. Functional Literacy
B. Traditional Literacy
C. Early/Emergent Literacy
D. Basic Literacy and Skills
2. What Literacy refers to the skills or applied knowledge?
A. Functional Literacy
B. Traditional Literacy
C. Early/Emergent Literacy
D. Basic Literacy and Skills
3. What Literacy refers to the development of skills students need in order to transition from
learning to read, to reading to learn?
A. Functional Literacy
B. Traditional Literacy
C. Early/Emergent Literacy
D. Basic Literacy and Skills
4. If a student can read words accurately but struggles to read with expression, which literacy
skill might they need to develop?
A. Vocabulary
 B. Comprehension
C. Fluency
D. Phonological Awareness
5. A child enjoys books but doesn’t yet recognize how to follow words on a page. Which literacy
component should be strengthened?
A. Print Motivation
B. Print Awareness
C. Vocabulary
D. Phonics
6. What does social literacy emphasize?
A. The ability to read books independently
B. The ability to communicate and interact effectively in social settings
C. The ability to create financial budgets and savings plans
D. The ability to evaluate media sources critically
7. Why is media literacy considered essential in the digital age?
A. It eliminates the need for traditional classroom lessons.
B. It helps students understand, evaluate, and create digital content responsibly.
C. It focuses only on identifying viral videos.
D. It discourages the use of social media platforms.
8. What is one way a teacher can promote eco-literacy among students?
A. Teach students how to use digital tools effectively.
B. Introduce only artistic approaches to environmental topics.
C. Focus on financial investments and budgeting.
D. Encourage students to segregate garbage for sustainable development.
9. What is a suggested classroom practice to promote multicultural literacy?
A. Using colorblind approaches in teaching
B. Ignoring cultural differences among students
C. Integrating diverse cultural contexts into lessons and activities
D. Avoiding discussions about social justice and equity
10. Why is financial literacy important for individuals?
A. It enhances collaboration skills among students.
B. It helps individuals avoid debt and make informed financial decisions.
C. It encourages students to focus only on their cultural background.
 D. It eliminates the need for using online tools for budgeting.
11. What is the main focus of a learner-centered approach in 21st-century education?
A. Emphasizing teacher-led lectures
B. Memorizing facts and formulas
C. Tailoring learning to individual students’ needs
D. Avoiding the use of technology
12. Which of the following best defines digital literacy?
A. The ability to repair computers
B. Using technology responsibly and critically
C. Memorizing programming languages
D. Avoiding social media platforms
13. What does global citizenship in 21st-century education emphasize?
A. Learning multiple languages
B Responsibility for local traditions
C. Understanding and addressing global issues
D. Traveling to other countries
14. Why is flexibility and adaptability considered crucial in 21st-century skills?
A. To help students memorize content faster
B. To reduce the need for collaboration in education
C. To prepare students to handle changes and new challenges effectively
D. To ensure students focus on one skill throughout their lives
15. What is the role of technology in 21st-century education?
A. To make learning easier by allowing students to avoid critical thinking.
B. To provide cognitive tools that enhance students’ ability to think and learn.
C. To replace traditional teaching methods entirely.
D. To encourage students to rely on technology for cheating.

REFERENCES

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Amy Menzi (2017), MAKE SYNTHESIZING EASY WITH THESE SIMPLE

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Common Sense Media, What is media literacy, and why is it important?.

Retrieved on [Link]
literacy/what-is-media-literacy-and-why-is-it-important

Course Hero, Lesson 3 Globalization and Multicultural Literacy. Retrieved on

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multicultural-literacytest-

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estion

EduResearchMatters, Arts-based teaching of literacy. Retrieved on

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al%20literacy%20is%20the%20ability,management%2C%20budgeting
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