Environment & the world

Recipes for Success in Literacy: Environment & the world is one book in a series of three that provides opportunities for teachers to explore literacy learning experiences with their students on topics such as environmental, biological, meteorological and oceanographic issues facing societies of the world. The theme of this book encourages a cross curricular link with Studies of Society and Environment (SOSE). Other titles in the series explore the themes of 'Fairytales & picture storybooks' and 'Values & days of recognition'.

The activities provided in this book are viewed as 'recipes' to ensure students' success with literacy. In addition, the authors outline 'ingredients'that they promote as essential teacher beliefs or practices to ensure effective literacy teaching and learning occurs. These include organising a classroom environment which promotes opportunities for students to develop a sense of ownership for personal learning goals, take responsibility for shared, collaborative and independent tasks, demonstrate new levels of understanding and learning processes, and evaluate and reflect on literacy learning outcomes achieved.

There is a specific focus on developing the knowledge, skills and processes required for English language development. Activities are organised into the areas of Viewing, Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening, ICT, and Conventions. A consistent format is applied to these areas of the book. For example, teacher tips are included to provide information on how to organise and apply the literacy learning experiences of each of these areas. An overview acts as a guide and reference for easy location of relevant activities outlined in the book.

Simple, clear, step-by-step instructions are provided to guide students' completion of activities. These instructions assist students' understanding of expectations and procedures involved for completing each of the activities. Students are encouraged to work through these activities independently, at their own pace. A collaborative, student centred, and hands-on approach could be used by students working in literacy centres or as a whole class. Discussion and a sharing of ideas with a partner or group of peers could be fostered. Teachers may prefer to conduct whole class activities to facilitate the achievement of specific aims prior to independent student work. The activities could be used by teachers as they are presented in the book or developed in such a way to suit individual needs. The use of specific teaching strategies pre, during and after activities is recommended to scaffold students' learning necessary skills, knowledge and processes required to complete tasks.

Recipes for Success in Literacy: Environment & the world outlines interesting and flexible literacy learning activities for teachers and students in the upper primary years. These activities facilitate students' use of a wide range of resources such as reference books, posters, stories, magazines, photographs, computer programs, Internet sites, video and music. The book thus encourages the adoption of a multiliterate approach to literacy teaching and learning. It is a practical, worthwhile resource to assist teachers to develop effective literacy programs.

Vikki Hill in Literacy Learning: the Middle Years

Vol 13, Number 1, February 2005, p. 52 |