LITERACY

Literacy

Literacy

Introduction

Literacy is broadly understood as one's ability to read and write, especially in the dominant language of one's society. In the American tradition, however, the mastery of the English language is also often demonstrated in oratory. Thus, according to me African American culture reflects the symbiosis of literacy and orality. In the context of American education, in particular, literacy is ostensibly more political in connotation. Historically, literacy for African Americans linked to notions of freedom, especially freedom from enslavement, and empowerment (Holme, 2004). Many scholars have characterized the attainment of literacy as an assertion of African American humanity.

Discussion

Literacy is a term often used to indicate a person's success in the pursuit of his career also the quality of his life. One of the commonest definitions of literacy that we find is that literacy is the ability to read and write sensibly. However, it is more than that. Literacy is basically the way in which adults use the written information to function in society. Literacy gives sense and meaning to life and enables individuals to live purposefully. It enables the person to make correct sue of his life and achieves that goals that he aspires. Therefore, is we possess good literacy skill, it is likely that we will have a sound education background, a substantial job, decent earning source, and an access to opportunities of training and direction. Individuals who are illiterate are more likely to be unemployed and unproductive for the country or if by chance they get a job somewhere, they are either low-paid or face unsuitable working conditions (Freire & Macedo, 2007). In the recent times, the definition and meaning of literacy has undergone numerous transformations. Literacy now withholds dynamic socio-cultural aspects and considered as a task that requires effort and toil. As time changes, literacy skills become vaster and hence acquiring a desired literacy level is often a complex and complicated task for a majority of people around the world.

Traditional Concept

Literacy traditionally referred to as the mere ability of reading and writing. Whoever, reads reasonable and writes thoughtful words can be considered a literate being in conventional terms. Literacy seen as a simple, learned cognitive skill taught at school using traditional methods such as grammar, spelling, and phonics. Robert, however, believes that, although reading, writing and thinking are necessary skills for one to be considered literate, literacy cannot be defined by the acquisition of these skills alone ...