The original wording of the key competence:
‘Literacy is the ability to identify, understand, express, create, and interpret concepts, feelings, facts and opinions in both oral and written forms, using visual, sound/audio and digital materials across disciplines and contexts. It implies the ability to communicate and connect effectively with others, in an appropriate and creative way.
Development of literacy forms the basis for further learning and further linguistic interaction. Depending on the context, literacy competence can be developed in the mother tongue, the language of schooling and/or the official language in a country or region.’
Suggestions for use in European youth programmes:
Literacy competence in European youth Programmes refers to the ability to communicate effectively in oral or written form. Think about the new words and expressions participants learn when preparing a project; it’s a whole new language when you suddenly talk about the European dimension, about aims and objectives, citizenship, active participation etc. It is also about presenting ideas on websites, social media, posters and leaflets or maybe even in official letters. How to formulate and communicate clearly and in a creative way? Planning the project together with peers means discussion and sharing and formulating ideas. It is all about learning to express oneself and the ability to listen to and understand others and to be critical and respectful at the same time.
Questions that can help participants to reflect:
- Which way (talking, writing or other) did you find the most helpful to express your thoughts and feelings?
- Did you prepare any written text for folders, posters, social media to promote or explain your project? How was that and did you learn new things?
- Do you feel now more self-confident when you want to express yourself? In what way?
- What else would you like to work further on to increase this competence? In what way? Who and what can help you in that?