Empowering Teachers: A Journey into Disciplinary Literacy
As educators, we often find ourselves grappling with the question, "What does disciplinary literacy actually look like in my content area?" Teaching literacy skills for real-life applications can be challenging, but fear not! In this blog post, we'll delve into the insightful work of ReLeah Cossett Lent, offering you a guide to navigate the world of disciplinary literacy and empower your students.
Understanding Disciplinary Literacy:
Disciplinary literacy goes beyond the conventional definitions of reading and writing. It involves constructing content knowledge, supported by unique literacies specific to each discipline. The challenge lies in translating this concept into actionable strategies in our classrooms.
The Power of a Chart:
Lent introduces a valuable tool – a dynamic chart that outlines skills for reading, writing, and thinking tailored to different disciplines. This chart acts as a catalyst, sparking discussions among teachers about what constitutes knowledge in their fields, what it means for students to be literate, and the skills and habits of mind required in each discipline.
Engaging Workshops:
Imagine being part of workshops where teachers, grouped by content area, redefine literacy skills beyond traditional boundaries. Science and math teachers, for instance, reimagine writing to include "phrases, sketches, symbols, numbers, measurements, notes, reflections, and observations." The goal is to encourage educators to think creatively and challenge preconceived notions of literacy.
Non-Core Perspectives:
One of the most enlightening aspects of Lent's approach is the inclusion of non-core teachers. Their unique perspectives redefine "reading and writing" as "viewing and performing" or "analyzing and creating." A physical education teacher emphasizes literacy in her content area involving bodies, not just books, while a music teacher ponders the musical literacy of someone who can play an instrument but can't read music.
Customizing the Chart:
The chart is not a rigid document but a dynamic tool open to revision based on new research or educators' input. Lent encourages teachers to collaborate, using the chart to create discipline-specific anchor charts. These visual aids, titled "How does a biologist write?" or "How does a mathematician think?" adorn classroom walls, fostering a shared understanding of disciplinary literacy.
Real-life Implementation:
Teachers are not just left with theoretical concepts. Lent encourages them to implement activities inspired by the chart in their classrooms. The impact is palpable – students engaging in Socratic Seminars, questioning authors, and applying disciplinary skills in their work. Real-life examples bring the chart to life, making disciplinary literacy tangible and effective.
A Work in Progress:
The beauty of Lent's approach is its acknowledgment that the chart is a work in progress. It evolves based on classroom experiences, feedback from colleagues, and new research. This ongoing revision aligns with the dynamic nature of literacy and its role in our lives and society.
Embrace the journey into disciplinary literacy with the tools provided by ReLeah Cossett Lent. The chart becomes your compass, guiding you through meaningful discussions, creative adaptations, and real-life applications. Empower yourself as an educator and, in turn, empower your students for success in the diverse landscape of real-world literacy.