Characteristic #2

Characteristic #2: “There are explicit discussions of the merits of using certain symbol systems in certain situations with much choice” (Kist, 2005, p. 16).

The other day, I gave my kids an expository prompt that asked them to explain how to make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Immediately, they grumbled because they thought that they were going to have to use traditional written text for their symbol system. Much to their delight, I offered them the opportunity to express themselves using a different type of text. We brainstormed some possible symbol systems that could be used for communicating the information. Written directions, spoken directions, video, still pictures, sculpture, Braille, sign language, audio recording, animation, and drawings were all mentioned. As we talked about each one, we considered what type of audience and situation would benefit from its use. For instance, one student made the point that spoken directions, audio recording, sculpture, or Braille would be the best choices for a blind audience since they would not be able to “read” any of the visual texts. It was a very engaging and enlightening conversation for both the kids and me. Kist believes that these types of conversations should happen regularly in new literacies classrooms. While we need to give students choices, it is important that we help them think about the appropriateness and effectiveness of possible symbol systems for specific assignments.

What would a conversation about the benefits of certain symbol systems look like
in your classroom?

Characteristic #1

Characteristic #1: “Classrooms feature daily work in multiple forms of representation” (Kist, 2005, p. 16).

According to William Kist, students and teachers in new literacies classrooms use different modes or “texts” to express themselves on a daily basis. Multiple forms of alternative media are encouraged and celebrated in situations where print alone may typically be used to “read” and “write.” One aspect of Kist’s view that I appreciate is the fact that he acknowledges and includes both technology-based forms and more “old fashioned” modes of communication and representation, like dance and painting. Please share a few “forms of representation” that come to your mind. Feel free to describe them in words or through a link.

Here is a video that illustrates dance, music, and sign language.



I think that this video is a great example of an expository piece using an alternative type of media.

Welcome!

Welcome to our Module 5 project! Since we are new to the blogging world, this will be a learning journey for all of Team B. I am excited to see where it takes us! The following is a video that will help set the stage. Enjoy!