How does cultural background impact literacy learning?

Cultural background plays a critical role in literacy learning as it shapes how students interpret and engage with texts. The experiences, beliefs, values, and practices associated with a student’s culture influence their attitudes toward reading and writing, as well as their understanding and interpretation of the material. For example, students from different cultural backgrounds may have varying levels of familiarity with certain narratives, themes, or genres commonly found in literary works. This familiarity can affect their ability to relate to the text, analyze its content, and engage in discussions about it.

Moreover, cultural background provides a framework through which students process information, which can affect their comprehension and critical thinking skills. Engaging with diverse texts that reflect a variety of cultural perspectives can enrich students’ literacy experiences and promote a deeper understanding of the world around them. Therefore, recognizing and incorporating students’ cultural backgrounds into literacy instruction not only supports their engagement with texts but also enhances their overall literacy development.