As a Title 1 reading interventionist, I’ve seen firsthand the transformative power of literacy in a student’s life. It’s more than just decoding words on a page; it’s about empowering students to become critical thinkers, active learners, and agents of change. This is the heart of critical literacy, a pedagogical approach that goes beyond traditional reading instruction to help students question, analyze, and challenge the world around them (Beach et al., 2013).

My Journey with Critical Literacy

I am currently finishing my Educational Specialist degree at A-State (Wolves Up!). One of the final courses I’m in is called Critical Literacy, and I think it’s my favorite so far. My teaching philosophy is deeply rooted in critical pedagogy, which emphasizes the importance of dialogue, reflection, and social action (Vasquez et al., 2013). I strive to create a classroom environment where students feel safe to express their ideas, question assumptions, and challenge dominant narratives. I believe that learning should be a collaborative process where both teachers and students learn from each other.

This journey hasn’t been without its challenges. As many (most) teachers do, I grapple with issues of racial inequality and lack of representation in the curriculum, similar to the experiences shared by Sam Baker in Dixie Keyes’ (2009) “Narratives of Critical Literacy.” However, these challenges have only strengthened my resolve to empower students with the critical literacy skills they need to navigate and ultimately change the world around them.

Cultivating Critical Thinkers and Agents of Change

In my classroom, I utilize a variety of literacy tools to engage students in critical inquiry and create spaces where they can enact their identities and establish a sense of agency (Beach et al., 2013). For example, I’ve had students create and perform skits based on the passages we read, allowing them to demonstrate comprehension creatively and develop their oral language skills. I’ve also incorporated digital storytelling tools like Canva, enabling students to combine text, images, and audio to retell or extend stories. This not only accommodates diverse learning styles but also fosters creativity and digital literacy skills (Beach et al., 2013).

What Really Matters

Ultimately, what matters most to me as an educator is cultivating critical consciousness in my students and empowering them to effect meaningful change. Education is not just about acquiring knowledge and skills; it’s about fostering a deep understanding of oneself, one’s community, and the world at large. It’s about empowering individuals to question, challenge, and create a more equitable and inclusive society.

Cultivating Critical Thinkers and Agents of Change

By embracing critical literacy and providing students with the tools and opportunities to develop their critical thinking skills, we can equip them to become active participants in their education and agents of change in their communities. As educators, we have a responsibility to nurture not only academic success but also the critical consciousness that will empower our students to make a positive impact on the world.

Sources

Beach, R., Campano, G., Edmiston, B., & Borgmann, M. (2013). Literacy tools in the classroom: Teaching through critical inquiry, grades 5-12. Teachers College Press. 

Keyes, D. (2009). Narratives of critical literacy: Critical consciousness and curriculum-making at the middle level. Critical Literacy: Theories and Practices, 3(2).

Vasquez, V. M., Tate, S. L., & Harste, J. C. (2013). Negotiating critical literacies with teachers: Theoretical foundations and pedagogical resources for pre-service and in-service contexts. Routledge.