Critical Literacy in the Social Studies Classroom: A Case for the 21st Century

This article considers the potential of integrating critical literacy into approaches to teaching and learning social studies as an indispensable tool for building better communities (Agbaria, 2011). It begins with an overview of the authors’ experiences and perspectives related to social studies and critical literacy. It then proceeds to consider current perceptions and practices regarding literacy in U.S. classrooms and the trend towards teaching and learning literacy and a distinct set of technical and functional knowledge and skills that are often taught in isolation. The article then examines conceptions of critical literacy and considers connections to social studies education. Finally, it considers how critical approaches to teaching and learning literacy and social studies might be united to promote and support the development of critical thinking skills necessary for today’s students to successfully address issues in an increasingly complex and interconnected global society