Building Blocks

English language achievement levels are significantly influenced by L2 literacy. Pre-service and in-service teacher training programs should include direct instruction of literacy skills to increase the number of qualified English teachers who can assist in teaching literacy. If young children are not given quality literacy instruction, they will very likely continue to be under-achievers as they progress through the school system.

To address this issue for the past three years, school counselors and teachers have been instructed in literacy theory and teaching strategies to raise awareness and create practical knowledge about English reading literacy among language educators; English teachers, counselors and school principals. In the third year of Building Blocks, 70 counselors and English teachers nation-wide joined a 60 hour course to delve into the learning and teaching of literacy in elementary and JH school and 30 others participated in a Building Blocks mentors’ course. This domain of knowledge and practice is crucial for every English teacher.