Philosophy Statement

Dr. Blanchette
Millie Kidder-Goshorn
A teacher takes a hand, opens a mind, and touches a
heart
I have chosen this quote to begin my philosophy on literacy
instruction because I believe if a teacher incorporates the essential
components of literacy into their classroom, they will successfully take
a hand, open a mind, and touch a heart through the wonders of
literacy. When it comes to effectively teaching literacy in the
classroom, there are many components that need to be included. It is
essential that literacy instruction is balanced and encompasses the five
aspects: reading, writing, viewing, speaking, and listening. Teachers
also need to make sure that all content areas include an aspect of
literacy, learning is meaningful and interactive, instruction and
activities are done in whole group, small group, partner pairs and oneon-one, a literacy routine is set, literacy instruction is differentiated
based on individual students needs and that the teacher promotes and
models a love for literacy.
A literacy classroom is only complete when all five aspects,
reading, writing, viewing, speaking, and listening, are included
throughout instruction. Each of these aspects need to be individually
modeled and explicitly taught, but it is also important to intertwine
these five aspects in order to create a greater learning experience. The
most effective way to go about this is to create a routine of when each
aspect or aspects of literacy are the focus of the lesson, so that the
students recognize its importance and consistency within the schedule.
While making sure literacy learning experiences are interactive and
engaging, it is critical to include the five aspects of literacy throughout
content areas. This provides the opportunity for varied teaching and
learning, while focusing on different subject areas and becoming
familiar with various texts, writings, and visuals.
While continuously including the five aspects of literacy
throughout lessons, it is important that lessons are uniquely created
depending on whether it will be taught to a whole group, small group,
for partner pairs, for individual work or for one-one-one time with a
student. Students need to be consistently exposed and interacting with
different group sizes as well as opportunities to work individually.
Another component to include for literacy instruction is to make sure
that each individual students needs are being met. Literacy instruction
must be differentiated, so that each student receives and experiences
meaningful learning. Differentiation should be based on reading levels,
spelling stages, writing abilities, social skills, and much more. Finally, it

is very important to always model and promote a positive example and

outlook on all aspects of literacy. When students see their teacher
reading or hear their teacher excitedly talking about something he or
she read, they will recognize that. We are the leaders of our classrooms
and one of our most important jobs is to promote literacy and prepare
meaningful and exciting literacy learning experiences.