L I T E R A C Y P L A N 2 0 1 5

THE NEVADA STATE LITERACY PLAN
Overview
IV. Nevada’s Definition of Literacy:
Even in the year 2015, there is a profound misunderstanding by many Americans with regards to the meaning of the word
“literacy”. If one was to conduct a poll today regarding this definition, many Americans would immediately define the word “literacy” to
be synonymous with the word “reading” or “reading and writing”. This issue has become so pronounced that the leading international organization
guiding the work of literacy across the globe has recently changed its name from the International Reading Association to the
International Literacy Association. Itoco Garcia writes of this action, “A shift in conception of the meaning of literacy away from simple
notions of reading is necessary to successfully educate students in schools today” (2015). In an effort to address similar confusion within
Nevada, the NSLP Revision Team established its own definition of literacy. It is as follows:
Literacy
The ability to actively and critically read, write, speak,
and listen across all academic content areas and/or career
pathways in order to construct meaning and
communicate effectively. A literate individual is able to
independently and collaboratively function in a global
society by using evidence, creativity, questioning,
reflecting, and problem-solving skills.
Nevada State Literacy Plan Revision Team
August 12, 2014
(BOARD OF REGENTS 12/03/15 & 12/04/15) Ref. BOR-25, Page 10 of 241
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