Jennifer Sayre

SLM 521

September 16, 2004

Journal Article Review

“The New Literacy” by Sara Armstrong and David Warlick is an article that seeks to challenge educators to find ways to promote student literacy while acknowledging that students have access to a wealth of information through technology.  The article suggests that the traditional “3 R’s” (Reading, Writing, and Arithmetic) have evolved into the “4 E’s” (Exposing Knowledge, Employing Information, Expressing Ideas and Ethics).  With textual material on the Internet, students can learn to decipher the main topic and relevant information.  Students can also manipulate data by creating spreadsheets and graphs on Microsoft Excel.  As students use word processors and email, they need to develop skills on how to use tools to change/spell check their work to become effective communicators.  It is also crucial for students to know how to properly access and use online material. The article concludes with a list of suggested websites and tools to help students achieve the “4 E’s” skills.  Through modeling and student-centered instruction, students are able to use the Internet and other technology to develop effective reading, communication and problem solving skills.

          It is really amazing how much my 7^th and 8^th grade students know about the Internet and other technological resources.  With access to such an incredible amount of information, it is necessary for students to understand the dangers as well as the benefits of the Internet.  I agree with this article that it is important for students to evaluate the reliability, objectivity and accuracy of what they are reading on the Internet.  As a social studies teacher, I have students do several research projects that require Internet research and word processing.  Many of my students do not know how to narrow Internet searches or how to create a “Works Cited Page”.   This article has motivated me to manipulate the “4 E’s” to help students develop basic literacy skills while accessing technology.  It is important that teachers “keep abreast” of our constantly-changing technologies so that we can continue to use it as a learning tool in our classrooms.

Armstrong, S. and Warlick, D.  (2004, September 15).  The New Literacy.  Tech Learning.  Retrieved from http://www.techlearning.com/story/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=47102021