Driving Question You are a sum of total of what you read and write. How does language and literacy define you?

The title of this unit, By Hook or By Crook, means to achieve by any means necessary. It is taken from one of the poems in our readings in which the speaker is determined to learn how to read "by hook or by crook." Literacy has historically been reserved for the elite because the ability to record and pass on information is an incredibly powerful tool. Here in America enslaved people were denied access to literacy which effectively took a large part of their ability to organize and be free. Today literacy is more than just the written page. The Internet has democratized the ability to publish not only words, but images, websites, videos, audio files, and much more. Literacy is the key to accessing power.

Discovery - This is a journey of self discovery. Through reflection students will uncover what role literacy has played in making them the person they are today.

Application of Skill - After discovering the literacy skills that they possess students can apply them to the creation their essay.

Power - Through self-discovery students will gain power to direct their next step in their literacy journey

Thrill of Danger - Self-discovery is always dangerous.

Essay (This is not limited to words on a page. You can make a video, photo, or audio essay): Students will be responsible for writing an essay discussing their relationship to literacy and the effect that it has had on their life.

Outline

Introduction - Grab the attention of the reader with a startling fact, funny story, reference to a famous person, etc. The write your thesis.

Body - This should include multiple examples that support what you said in the thesis. For example if you stated that you hate books, then the next few paragraphs should be talking about books you hate and why. Use stories as much as possible. Remember you have already written several paragraphs in response to prompts in class. See if you can use any of those in your essay.

Conclusion - Given the information in your body, how do you see your future with literacy.