Using Critical Literacy to Develop Class Consciousness Among Middle School Students

• In Event: 35.082 - Roundtable Session 14
  In Roundtable Session: 35.082-25 - Action Research and Literacy Development

Abstract

This action research study utilizes a particular application of a critical literacy program a means to eventually alleviate achievement gaps and alter the structure of class inequity. The study is based on the conceptual idea that perhaps one hope that society has in changing systemic inequalities and attending to various social justice issues is presenting the issues to students when they are very young and impressionable. Instead of allowing mainstream culture to dictate unfair norms and practices by simply abiding to the status quo, this study suggests that schools should aim to be the vehicle for transformational change by cultivating critical thinkers who can socially analyze current aspects of society and become active proponents of change.

Author

• Barb Anne Pollard, University of Windsor