Critical Literacy

Response to #2

Even though I am a science major, I decided to read the article about Anne Frank. It was enlightening to see their view on critical literacy. As I understood from the article, critical literacy is trying to understand a concept or story from more than perspective and not letting previous conceptions inhibit you from finding the truth. The article related three different versions of The Diary of Anne Frank, one written by Anne (without editing), one with editing by her father, and one from an institution. They said that each was presented in a different light. When you have more than one perspective, you are able to see a bigger picture. 

The article also talked about the preconceived notions of the students diminished the reality of the situation. They called it the Americanization of the story. In our schools it is taught, in most cases, that Anne Frank's story is a hopeful, optimistic one. The students don't associate the challenges of WWII and concentration camps, because they already know the story in some vague sense. They know that Anne was a happy girl and very optimistic. Since most students have already heard the story, it is hard to help them see another perspective. The article says it is a good idea to gain a sense of how much knowledge the students have prior to teaching the topic. 

Teaching critical literacy is important because the students can develop analyzing skills. It also opens their minds. They begin to accept that their current knowledge isn't always enough or correct. When they realize there is more, they have the capacity to learn and understand more. Some things that I plan on doing after reading this article, is to ask a lot of questions regarding the conception of the text. (Who wrote it, What were they like, what were the times like, Why did they write it, etc). I think giving context of who wrote the book and a little about their life sheds light on topic. 

I can do this in my field (science) too. The class I am in right now is a good example of that. We are studying famous scientists and their discoveries. We study a lot about who they are and what their lives are like and a little about the history of the times. It helps us understand what lead to the discoveries and why they were so miraculous at the time. 

I would also read and compare more than one account if possible. That would give them more than one perspective. Giving them more than one perspective gives them the choice of thinking another way instead of imprinting one opinion into them. Overall I felt that the article was beneficial.