Literacy is defined as the ability to read and write, while illiteracy is defined as the inability to read or write and functional illiteracy refers to reading and writing skills that are inadequate for daily tasks. Literacy is an important skill for navigating daily life through following directions, reading maps and menus, and connecting with history and ideas through reading. While literacy connects individuals to the past and future, approximately 1 in 5 American adults struggle with functional illiteracy, emphasizing the importance of continuing to read, write, and promote literacy in order to stay informed and help others.

1. Literacy & Illiteracy An understanding of the literacy skills needed to successfully navigate through life

2. Literacy is defined as the ability to read and write (wikipedia.org)

3. Illiteracy is defined as the inability to read or write, while functional illiteracy is reading or writing skills that are inadequate for daily living and employment tasks that require reading function above a basic level (wikipedia.org)

4. Many tasks require us to be functionally literate

5. Our Job

6. Following Directions

7. Reading a Map,

8. Menu,

9. or Sign

10. Literacy connects us to our past

11. And brings us towards the future

12. “The reading of all good books is like conversation with the finest men of the past centuries” (Descartes)

13. Did you know…

14. 1 in 5 American Adults is functionally illiterate Thinkquest.org

15. Stay informed and in control of your life by continuing to read and write

16. “A book is the most effective weapon against intolerance and ignorance” (Lyndon Baines Johnson)

17. Pass your knowledge to others and promote literacy

18. Literacy connects us with one another

19. “Once you learn to read you will be forever free” (Fredrick Douglas)

20. Literacy Slide Show for ED 6305 By Danielle Bonneville