Sofia Monzon

Bi-Literacy Strategies for Second Language Learners

Dr. Gomez, Summer 2014, UST

Project # 1: Ideal Literacy Classroom
In the actuality, literacy is much more than just having the skills to decode and write
words. The term literacy now, refers to an individuals capacity to put those skills to work in
shaping the course of his or her own life (Education Development Center, 2014). As a self-
contained teacher, and knowing the importance of developing an environment which is inviting
and that promotes literacy, I envision my perfect classroom in the following way:
Individual areas to work on specific literacy skills, such as classroom library, independent
writing area, poetry/big books corner, listening corner, computer center, and math,
science, and social studies areas with a lot of books and writing materials to be used for
and with those areas.
Variety of books by genre, reading levels, topic, interest, and/or others suggestions. All
these books should be organized in such a manner that all students will have access to
them on a regular basis, and when possible, as often as theyd like.
Print rich walls with information about the different subjects being taught.
Interactive content walls in which students are able to manipulate and use words to
practice meaning and improve form.
Areas to show students literacy work and practice.
A place where students have a wide range of materials to use, that are accessible and
appropriate for their age, readiness level, creativity, and purpose.
An organized schedule and routine that allows all students to visit and have access to the
different areas according to their learning profiles and preferences.
Sofia Monzon
Bi-Literacy Strategies for Second Language Learners
Dr. Gomez, Summer 2014, UST
A learning environment in which collaboration and respect towards literacy is promoted
and demonstrated by all, teachers, students, administrators, visitors, etc.
I also believe that even if teachers are not reading teachers, and they only teach other
subjects such as math, science, music, etc., it is important to boost the students literacy skills by
having rich print environments, books, and other materials to support literacy.
Even though the ideal literacy classroom is sometimes hard to create due to space,
resources, or schedule constrains, it is imperative that teachers try their best to promote a rich,
inviting, and organized literacy environment in their classrooms.

















Sofia Monzon
Bi-Literacy Strategies for Second Language Learners
Dr. Gomez, Summer 2014, UST

Ideal Literacy Classroom

Sofia Monzon
Bi-Literacy Strategies for Second Language Learners
Dr. Gomez, Summer 2014, UST

References

Educational Development Center. (2014). What is Literacy? Retrieved from
http://www.edc.org/newsroom/articles/what_literacy

Lakeshore Learning Materials. (2014). Lakeshore Classroom Designer. Retrieved from
http://www.lakeshorelearning.com/classroom_designer/cd_launch.jsp