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Topic 1

Contemporary Frameworks in Literacy

  • Focus on Critical Literacies: Text analysis emphasizes the idea of being ‘positioned’ as readers.

  • Texts invite readers to interpret them in specific ways, influencing understanding.

Understanding Texts and Reader Positioning

  • Readers need to critically assess the following:

    • Conditions of Production

      • Who created the text? (Institutional, corporate)

      • Who is the intended audience? (Target audience)

      • What is the underlying purpose? (Institutional or corporate agenda)

      • What subject matter does it cover and its presentation style?

    • Conditions of Reception

      • How does the text influence the reader’s understanding?

      • What aspects are omitted about the topic?

      • Which demographics are excluded from the intended audience?

      • How can the text be altered to better meet the needs of diverse audiences?

The Role of the Text Analyst

  • The reader takes on the role of a text analyst, gaining power in text interpretation.

  • Characteristics of a text analyst include:

    • Making informed decisions on text usage and authority.

    • Understanding how texts are crafted for and by readers.

    • Utilizing resources from various reading practices to enhance understanding.

  • Reference: Literate Futures: Reading, 2002, p. 36.

Concept of Critical Literacy

  • Critical literacy involves a deeper understanding of texts beyond surface interpretation.

    • Readers must engage with the text critically, questioning meanings and intentions.

  • Key Questions for Consideration:

    • What does Luke mean by ‘critical literacy’?

    • Why is it essential for students to practice critical reading?

    • What implications does a critical literacy approach have in teaching practices?

  • Important Note: Approaching literacy from a critical perspective is not neutral and should be thoughtfully executed by educators (Knobel & Healy, 1998).

Planning for Literacies Teaching and Learning

  • Emphasis on consolidating knowledge around effective planning for literacy.

  • Recommended Reading:

    • Henderson, R., & Exley, B. (2019). "Thinking about planning for literacies learning" in Teaching Literacies: Pedagogies and Diversity (2nd ed.). Oxford University Press, Australia, pp. 20-36.