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James Jensen
Nancy Roche
Writing 1010-013
8 October 2014
Argument Summary 2
Literacy Practices by Barton and Hamilton dives deep into the different types of literacy
domains. From this article we gain a better understanding of how these domains are used in
social interactions. As well as in what way we can improve our interpretation of written and
verbal literacy.
Looking at different literacy events it is clear that literacy is not the same in all context;
rather, there are different literacies. (page10) Each literacy has its own identity with a set of
social practices associated within a domain. Different literacy domains present themselves
through written, verbal, and physical semiotics. The example Barton and Hamilton use is home
and institutional cooking (page 11). From this we see how the similar domain, cooking,
demonstrates unique differences when used in separate environments.
A first step in reconceptualising literacy is to accept the multiple functions literacy may
serve in a given activity (page13). These activities being social, religion, schooling, etc. The
multiple functions literacy is seen in, such as the work place, through social semiotics. This is
how we as a community break down literacy to conform to our lifestyles. Helping us deepen our
understanding of one discourse, which will enviably help us understand a domain.
Literacy is historically situated (page 8). Biblical text has been translated to help people
of different discourses understand what is being said. Such as the study of church documents in
a Sunday service or the study of the Scarlet letter in English class. These are the ways in which

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literacy is prescribed by the institution. Cultural construction of literacy and the historical
situation literacy practices are fluid and dynamic (page 13). They change as the society changes
and includes and excludes groups and individuals. With every interaction you have with
semiotics you gain a deeper understanding of the discourse. Once gaining a higher level then
you can start applying this knowledge to different domains.
Literacy is subject to change over time and through out domains. The better we
understand a domain the more likely it will change the way we interpret it. The individual and
their history play a part in the construction of their literacy practices. How each person interprets
the text then opens a discussion, whether written or verbal, that contributes to the evolution of
the practice (page13-14). Just like sharing pie recipes with friends, you can give step-by-step
instructions of how to make the pie but it all comes down to how well they understand the
literacy practice. For you it may be simple because you have practiced this literacy plenty of
times so you can adjust for error. While when some one new tries baking this pie they could fail
miserable because they have never invested time into learning and practicing this literacy.
Understanding different types of literacy helps open up more opportunity to engage in
discourses. This understanding of discourses deepens your understanding of domains. With more
comprehension of discourses and domains you gain a higher level of knowledge helping you
conduct the way to interpret written and verbal literacy practices.

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Works Cited
Barton, David, and Mary Hamilton. "Literacy Practices." Literacy Practices
(2000): 7-15. Print.