CHL2601
Assessment 3
Due 11 July 2025
, CHL2601
Assessment 3
Due 11 July 2025
Literacy and Children’s Literature in Early Childhood Education
1.0 Question 1: Literacy and Children’s Literature
1.1 Brief Discussion
1.1.1 Definition of Literacy
Literacy encompasses the ability to read, write, comprehend, and communicate
effectively using written and spoken language, enabling meaningful engagement in
social and academic contexts (UNESCO, 2006). This definition assumes literacy as a
universal, standardized skill, yet its application varies across cultural and socioeconomic
landscapes, raising critical questions about equitable access and cultural relevance
(Street, 2003). The assumption of universality risks marginalizing non-Western literacy
practices, such as oral traditions, necessitating a broader conceptualization to address
diverse educational needs.
1.1.2 Definition of Emergent Literacy
Emergent literacy refers to the early developmental processes and skills, such as
phonological awareness, print awareness, and oral language, that precede conventional
reading and writing in young children (Whitehurst & Lonigan, 1998). Acquired through
exposure to books and storytelling, these skills assume a supportive, resource-rich
environment.
1
Assessment 3
Due 11 July 2025
, CHL2601
Assessment 3
Due 11 July 2025
Literacy and Children’s Literature in Early Childhood Education
1.0 Question 1: Literacy and Children’s Literature
1.1 Brief Discussion
1.1.1 Definition of Literacy
Literacy encompasses the ability to read, write, comprehend, and communicate
effectively using written and spoken language, enabling meaningful engagement in
social and academic contexts (UNESCO, 2006). This definition assumes literacy as a
universal, standardized skill, yet its application varies across cultural and socioeconomic
landscapes, raising critical questions about equitable access and cultural relevance
(Street, 2003). The assumption of universality risks marginalizing non-Western literacy
practices, such as oral traditions, necessitating a broader conceptualization to address
diverse educational needs.
1.1.2 Definition of Emergent Literacy
Emergent literacy refers to the early developmental processes and skills, such as
phonological awareness, print awareness, and oral language, that precede conventional
reading and writing in young children (Whitehurst & Lonigan, 1998). Acquired through
exposure to books and storytelling, these skills assume a supportive, resource-rich
environment.
1
