Module 1: Theories of Meaning Making

The first article, “Lessons From Sociocultural Writing Research for Implementing the Common Core State Standards” has made me realize a lot about writing and the patterns of it that I personally received from school. I have always enjoyed writing but after reading this article, I have noticed that there was always a huge emphasis on argumentative essays. I was taught since about third grade to agree or disagree with the topic, state my reasons why with evidence, put some form of a rebuttal, then close the argument. This has carried on all throughout the years and into college and there were really no other forms of writing introduced, other than a research paper. This article states how this specific style that is so embedded in the classroom may be difficult for some students, especially English language learners, who may not understand the linguistics and rhetoric that is needed for this form of writing and that it would be more helpful to start off with narratives as the foundation of writing which I believe to be helpful to all students, and not just ELL.

The second article, “Thinking Globally in Literacy Instruction: Making a Difference in the World” brought up topics that I’m sure we are all aware about, but sometimes forget. At least I know I do. There are millions of children in school with a serious lack of resources that inhibit their learning. There are no books, no electricity, no running water, and some times the only meal these children eat throughout the day comes from their school. America has schools with a lack of resources as well, but it is nothing compared to that of a third world country’s. I think it is overall important to value what we are given in the classroom and to help those in need whether it’s donating materials or starting fundraisers to aid the ones who may not be able to speak up.

The critical race theory video was very relevant, informative, and raw, with people of different perspectives from around the country. With “minorities” not really being minorities in most classrooms and actually majorities, it is important for all teachers to be knowledgeable and open-minded about their students’ cultures/race, and to not assume all students should behave and learn the same in a typical white american classroom. Schools in the US are moving too slow for this type of reformation and need to have more of a push towards it and willingness to learn and grow so each student can have a righteous and equal learning experience that can help them towards their future.

My literacy mantra ties into these articles and video because I believe even though we are given common core state standards, it is up to us, as educators, to blend the information in a way where it reaches all students and not just the typical middle class student. My philosophy is to be flexible with students and their needs and to start them off with a foundation that will help them grow and have a willingness to learn and not resentment towards something that they may not understand or find boring to their lives. It is important to understand that each student is unique in their backgrounds and that we should create a classroom environment that exemplifies that rather than subdue it.