What is Critical Literacy Discussions

In this chapter, the author explains the difference between teaching critical thinking and critical literacy with children's literature. She suggests ways teachers may select current children's literature that touches upon social justice and equity instead of just reading aloud old favorites that do not stimulate students' thinking about their world. She shares the steps for analyzing student diversity in classrooms and creating classroom libraries that match students' backgrounds and interests. Also, she describes a practical way teachers may prepare to conduct critical literacy discussions using a Classroom Literacy Folio. The folio includes summaries, personal connections, possible ways diversity may be included in selected books, and lesson ideas for how to introduce students to current issues so even young children can think critically. Included is a sample format, a completed Classroom Literacy Folio page, and suggestions for some of the latest children's literacy books that emphasize social justice and equity.