Personal Literacy Statement
In the past, I have attended Lincoln Hills Development Corporation (pre-school),
Milltown Elementary School, Crawford County High School, and Vincennes University. Within
these four schools that I attended, I remember a couple of literacy experiences. One of the first
literacy experiences I had was in Kindergarten. I remember reading the book If You Give a
Mouse a Cookie by Laura Numeroff during circle time. These books were a favorite of mine
when I was little. Other than this, I do not remember any more literacy experiences until sixth
grade. This is where my whole class read the book Hatchet by Gary Paulsen. I remember
enjoying this book because I had never read anything like it before. During my time at Crawford
County High School, I was able to read a handful of books. Throughout my four years there, I
read The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton, The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls, and Looking for Alaska
by John Green. I was able to read some classics. However, my favorite book from high school
was Looking for Alaska. This was/is a great book! This covers my previous literacy experiences.
There are multiple ways to go about teaching reading. One way that I think is important
to teach reading is to teach by example and to get involved with the students. I believe that it is
important to demonstrate what is expected out of students when it comes to reading. When
students are learning how to read, they can become easily discouraged. So, I believe that if the
teacher can demonstrate what the students are learning, it will be comprehended better by the
students. Also, getting involved with students while they are learning to read can get them
excited about reading. For example, if a classroom is having independent reading time, the
teacher could grab a book of their own and also do independent reading. This could encourage
students to participate in independent reading and learn to love reading.
Assessments and interventions are essential for teachers and students. These two tools
allow teachers to track students' progress effectively. Since schools keep track of each student’s
progress, teachers and supporting staff can help each student make progress in all aspects of their
life. Assessments and interventions are critical tools needed in each classroom.