Understanding Literacy and Disadvantage

Addressing literacy and disadvantage requires high-quality teaching, practical strategies, and a commitment to valuing children's individual backgrounds and challenging deficit descriptions. This book supports trainee teachers to understand the complex relationships between literacy achievement and social background and offers practical strategies for teaching.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 152 pages
Publication date: 22 June 2022
Publisher: SAGE Publications Ltd

Addressing literacy and disadvantage requires a comprehensive and multifaceted approach, as there are no quick fixes, simplistic solutions, or silver bullets. Both research and professional evidence from schools have consistently demonstrated a strong association between social disadvantage and achievement in literacy. This concern has been prevalent for over 70 years, and it is crucial that trainee teachers and teachers in general feel adequately equipped to address this issue.

This book aims to support trainee teachers in exploring the complex relationships between literacy achievement and social background. It provides practical strategies for teaching and encourages trainee teachers to understand the importance of valuing and drawing upon children's individual backgrounds. It also emphasizes the need to avoid deficit descriptions of disadvantaged children and challenge low expectations that may be held about them. Furthermore, the book highlights the crucial role of schools, teachers, and classrooms in creating rich literacy environments that support learning and promote achievement.

By addressing literacy and disadvantage through a comprehensive and empathetic approach, we can work towards creating a more equitable and inclusive education system that ensures all children have the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.

Weight: 272g
Dimension: 245 x 171 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529780390