Literacy is the key to a strong, robust, and rewarding life
Literacy is a complex, multifaceted skill that co-exists and grows with lived experience, interest, background knowledge, and cultural relevance. Literacy Proficiency rests on 3 main pillars: Conceptual Understanding (the "why"), Procedural Fluency (the "how"), and Contextual Application (the "what").
*NOTE - the links on this Integrating Literacy page live on the EnGiNE platform, a resource hub for educators in Maine. Creating an account is free - and so are all of the resources available there. So, if you haven't already, click "Join" and create your account today.
Conceptual Understanding
Conceptual understanding in literacy goes beyond decoding words—it’s about making meaning, recognizing patterns, and applying knowledge across contexts. True literacy empowers learners to think critically, engage with diverse texts, and navigate the complexities of communication in a changing world. When students develop a deep, transferable understanding of literacy, they become adaptable, informed, and capable participants in their communities.
"The Importance of Background Knowledge in Understanding Text." by Kathryn Starke
Click HERE to join the conversation!
Procedural Fluency
Procedural fluency in literacy is the ability to apply reading and writing skills efficiently, accurately, and flexibly. It involves mastering foundational skills—like decoding, syntax, and grammar—while seamlessly integrating them to support comprehension and expression. When learners develop procedural fluency, they gain the confidence to engage with texts, communicate ideas, and adapt to new literacy challenges with ease.
"Play-Based Activities that Build Reading Readiness" Edutopia, January 26, 2021
Click HERE to join "Modern Literacies: Navigating a Changing World"
Contextual Application
Contextual, real-world application in literacy means using reading, writing, and communication skills to navigate daily life, solve problems, and engage with society. Whether analyzing media, understanding workplace documents, or advocating for ideas, literacy empowers individuals to think critically and act effectively. When literacy is connected to real-world contexts, it becomes a tool for lifelong learning, personal growth, and active participation in the world.
"Deeper Learning: Defining 21st-century Learning" Edutopia, January 21, 2013
Click HERE for the Word of the Week,
Literacy Limelight
“Literacy is everywhere! Science, math, history, art, music, research, social media, personal finance, career readiness, cartography, emerging tech - and of course settling in with a good book!
Let's explore the joys of literacy!
Click here for a short (15 min or less) showcase of something amazing as it connects to Literacy. New topics every week.
Integrating Literacy through Background Knowledge with Josie Cameron
December 12, 2024, 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Memorial Union at the University of Maine at Orono, China Rd, Orono, ME 04473
“Students often tell me they have NO IDEA what to write about! When we dig into place-based writing, they’re surprised to find story ideas hidden right in front of their eyes!” Background Knowledge, the information and wisdom acquired through our own lived experiences, has in the past been overlooked. However, as research reveals more about the ways in which students learn, it is gaining recognition as a fundamental element in students’ comprehension and ability to make meaning from text - foundational skills to literacy. Join Josie Cameron, Maine author and educator (Not All Heroes, Maybe a Mermaid), as we explore the importance of Background Knowledge and how to harness it for learning!
Use this registration link to spend the day learning with Josie Cameron.
Office Hours
Tuesdays @ 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Topic of the Week: Modern Literacies: What Are They?
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Thursdays @ 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Week 1: Pre-K-2 Week 2: Grades 3-5 Week 3: Grades 6-8 Week 4: Grades 9-12
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“...literacy education not only unlocks opportunity for learning across disciplines but it is enhanced when well-integrated within disciplines. Inter-disciplinary literacy instruction enables the application of literate abilities for purposeful and richer learning, often motivating learners through engagement in disciplines and topics of interest.”
Contact
Heather Martin
Interdisciplinary Instruction Specialist
Phone: 207-557-0386
Email: heather.martin@maine.gov