Expansion Of Literature To Enhance The Development Of 21st Century Competencies In The Younger Generation

This article examines teaching of poetry in America and the benefits it has achieved. It is relevant because our project hopes to make literature a more relatable subject and thus, the teaching strategies employed in America can serve as learning points.

Credibility of Source

Suzi Parker is an Arkansas-based political and cultural journalist. She regularly contributes to Takepart, a digital news platform featuring independent journalism on social topics. The author is knowledgeable about the study of literature as she specializes in the field of cultural journalism. This article was written 2 years ago, very recent and relevant. Although American children may not be similar to Singapore children, we can still examine the way literature is taught in America and thereafter, expand on the ideas brought up in the article to engage Singapore children in literature. TakePart aims to tell stories to readers to inspire their involvement. As such, the author would provide valuable insights to teaching of literature. This article has also been uploaded on Yahoo news, which increases its credibility.

Usefulness of Source to My Group’s Project: Proposing the Introduction of Poetry to Primary School Students

The article mentions that the author is part of Poet Warriors Project, “a nationwide program that helps kids write and publish poetry on tough issues they face, such as poverty, gangs, and peer pressure”. This project aims to generate positive changes in the students’ lives. To achieve our Desired Outcomes, we should show students the benefits they can reap from engaging in literature.

This reveals that poetry provides a platform for the expression of thought, encouraging exchange of ideas. Exposing children to poetry encourages them to be critical and inventive thinkers, as outlined in the 21st Century Competencies. I propose to introduce simple poetry to primary school students. Teachers can start with haiku, an easier form of poetry.

Students are given a guided worksheet to pen down their thoughts, allowing their teachers to know more about their interpretations. Thereafter, teachers can engage the class by inviting students to share their thoughts. Through this, students develop confidence and learn to communicate their ideas effectively.

To achieve our Desired Outcomes, we should provide students a platform for the sharing and appreciation of literature. I propose that schools set up a Literature Display corner at the canteen. Each month will take on a different form of literature, such as prose. Schools can encourage students to engage in creation of literary pieces to be shared with the school community. Selected pieces of work will be put up on display for others to appreciate. Through this, students will be motivated to engage in literary creation, to share their ideas with their peers. Students thus train themselves to be active contributors, as outlined in the 21st Century Competencies.

This concept would be more appealing than mundane book display set-ups. This stand is used to hold leaflet dispenser, thus, students are more likely to stop by and appreciate the works on display.

Overall Evaluation

The first idea focuses more on action, by involving the students in discussions. The second idea focuses more on raising awareness, to expose students to various literary works. Through this two-pronged approach, we can capitalize on literature to enhance the development of 21st Century Competencies.