Blog post 2- Addison Mathes

Blog Post 2  Addison Mathes

Blog 2

Question:  How does the classroom environment influence early literacy development? 

For me personally, I believe that classroom environment plays a huge role in literacy development because when I was a student between the ages of K-3rd, I would get scared to speak up whatsoever and especially if I was in a classroom enviornment where I was made to feel stupid or embarassed if I did not know a word, or if I did not do the reading from the night before or even if I had questions. I actually was very behind when it came to reading. I was always in the lowest reading group, my comprehension skills were not great, and on top of that, I had no confidence. Because of this, I started to hate the idea of reading completely and stopped trying. Eventually, I had an amazing fourth-grade teacher who worked with me so much and did not make me feel stupid if I did not know a word, couldn't spell, or comprehend what it was I was reading- she was so patient and kind, and over time I became better and better and eventually loved reading. Another reason I think I fell behind in reading/writing was that I felt discouraged and like I was more of an issue to work with.

Other than the teacher's attitude, playing a big part in a positive learning environment when it comes to literacy development are:

1. Cozy reading spaces for students to be able to comfortably read- me personally, I cannot just sit in a chair at a desk and read as an adult, so I can't imagine asking a first grader to sit at their desk and read, so having some options like bean bags or pillows they can sit on and read.

2. Organized books that are labeled by topics and reading level to help guide the student in picking out a book of their interests, but something not too difficult or too low a reading level.

3. Read-alouds are important and are something I plan to implement in my future classroom because my favorite part of the day was sitting on the carpet and my teacher reading a book and then having open discussions about the book. This is important because it models reading, expression, and comprehension skills. And for those who cannot read well but want to read, having something read to them can help keep their interest in becoming better readers.

Above are a few things I believe will support a positive environment for literacy development. But most importantly, having a teacher who is willing to work with a student, no matter their reading level, and who encourages reading in a positive light, will be the center of everything.