Our Worlds in Stories: Authentic Literacies in the Early Childhood Classroom

• In Event: 26.079 - Roundtable Session 7
  In Roundtable Session: 26.079-11 - Literacy and Language in Context: Stories of Teaching Practices

Abstract

What is the shape of authentic literacy work in early childhood? How can young children authentically engage and become empowered through language? This presentation addresses a situated representation of child-led, child negotiated literacy work in a Prekindergarten classroom. Through the culture circles, a teacher and her classroom co-construct critical conversations around traditional concepts of voice, expression, knowledge and its dispersion. Using the experiences and knowledge of the children, the class challenged traditional constructs of writing and literacy, creating their own framework for self-expression, co-construction of knowledge, and a broader sharing of their perspectives. This presentation examines the process of constructing authentic literacy work through the critical perspectives of young children.

Authors

• Mariana Souto-Manning, Teachers College, Columbia University

• Dana Frantz Bentley, Buckingham, Browne, and Nichols School