88 By
LONG AND Enkancine New Literacies AcROss THE CURRICULUM
Module 6: 4
SOCIAL LITERACY
Lene MNSOGIALIITERACYAD Cay
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Define social literacy
Discuss social skis, their impact and
Strategies for improvement
Describe an emotionally intelligent person
Present ways for enhancing people skills
Identify ways on how to integrate social
Ieracy in the lesson.
Draw relevant life lessons and significant
values from persdnal experience on
Practicing social literacy
Analyze research abstract on social Iteracy
‘and its implications to the teaching-learning
process,
Design an instructional material that can be
Used in integrating social literacy in a related
disciptine
ga INTERACTIVE PRESENTATION
Camera Flash: This is an activity that depicts the students
understanding of social literacy including their expressions through
Picture taking. It also enhances creativity, resourcefulness, and
critical thinking
ae
)
Procedures:
1. Group the students into 4 or 5 depending on class size.
2. Each group will be given ample time to think of ideas on social
skills.
3. Each group will be asked to take a picture that depicts the
given topic using cellphone camera. Pictures are all about
social skills,
4. The groups will show the pictures on the screen using an LCD
projector.
5. The class will first describe and interpret the picture.
6. Then, it will be the group’s turn to explain their picture.
7. The class will find time for a brief reflection on the activity.
CONCEPT EXPLORATION
The school is a social institution established for the contemplation
of reality in a profound, personal, informal and unstructured w2V:
Teachers facilitate leaming, teach students and model ceftai”
types of acceptable behavior while developing them in all aspectsModule 6:Sacial Literacy 89
academically, physically, emotionall h
ly and socially. In performing suc
tasks, teachers also relate to parents and other stakeholders. That is
why understanding and attaining social literacy is imperative among
them.
Social Literacy
Social literacy entails the development of social skills, knowledge
and positive human values toward desire and ability in human
beings to act and react positively and responsibly in a wide range of
complex social settings. It can be acquired through social process of
inquiry, values exploration and social decision-making that relate to
the acquisition of knowledge and understanding (Arthur, Davison and
Stow, 2000).
In school, social literacy can be demonstrated by teachers
in dealing with their superiors, colleagues, parents, students and
others, while for students, by way of interaction and interrelation with
the surroundings around them - their peers, the media and political
influencers, technology agents, religious groups, school staff, family
members, etc.
Social Skills :
Social skills are aspects of social literacy. As such, these are
an integral part of functioning in society. It involves good manners,
communicating effectively with others, being considerate of others’
feelings and expressing personal needs. In fact, children gain
social skills through playing while adults obtain it by interrelating with
others, both verbally (spoken language) and non-verbally (gestures,
body language, facial expressions, eye contact and appearance)
Social skills are also important in schools because they help build,
maintain and grow relationships of students with classmates, peers,
teachers, students, and others, while for teachers, with their superiors,
colleagues, parents, students, and others. These can be attained
through: (1) gaining ideas, information, techniques and perspectives
from people with different areas of expertise; (2) providing their own
perspective for the benefit of others; (3) accomplishing tasks and
working together toward shared goal; (4) providing mutual support for
difficult situations; (5) expanding network to lear about and pursue
new opportunities: (6) gaining feedback and referrals from people who
can personally attest to work, skills and qualities; and (7) making the
‘school truly a healthy and conducive learning environment.
‘Types of Social Skills
There are types of social skills that teachers can demonstrate
‘among students to attain a harmonious relationship with them.
4, Effective communication. It is the ability to communicate
effectively and share thoughts and ideas with students through
group conversations, discussions, etc.
gedere +
EEREBULOING avo Ennancine New Lrtenacies Across THE CURRICULUM
Fj ? ility to get to the SOUrCE of jh
2. Conflict resolution. It is the Sarl by weighing both sideg
rob workable ,
ion idee ened with the goal of mediating for reconciliation,
3. Active listening. It is the ability to pa! close attention to ,
student in times of counseling, introspection jand consultat‘on,
4. Empathy. itis the ability to understand and identify the feetings
of students in times of difficulty and trouble.
5. Relationship management. It is the ability t0 maintain
relationships and build key connections with schoo
stakeholders for the student's development.
6. Respect. It can be done by knowing when to initiate
communication and respond during interactions or even iq
times of heated arguments and confrontations.
7. Problem-solving skills. These involve seeking help, making
effective decisions and accepting consequences to derive
better solutions to the problem.
8. Interpersonal skills. These include the abilities of sharing
ies, asking for permission and waiting for
gs.
Improving social skilis. Social skills can be improved by
focusing on sustaining desirable attitudes and eliminating those
Undesirable ones through modeling, role-playing and performance
feedback mechanisms.
In addifion, one may consider: (1) maintaining eye contact; (2)
using proper body language; (3) knowing the difference between being
defensive; (7) remaining positive at all times; and (8) being teachable
and a good student in- most instances (https://www.skillsyouneed.com!
ips/social-skills.html).
Likewise, other ways that may help are as follows: (1) Behave
as a social person; (2) Start small if necessary; (3) Ask open-ended
questions; (4) Encourage others to talk about themselves; (5) Create
goals for yourself; (6) Offer compliments generously; (7) Read books
about social skills; (8) Practice good manners; (9) Pay attention to
your body language; (10) Join a social skills support group; (11) Sty
up to date on current events; and (12) Identify and replace negative
thoughts,
Impact of Social Skills. Possessing social skills results to: (")
better relationships; (2) better communication; (3) greater efficiency:
(4) advanced career prospects; and (5) increased over-all happiness
(http. masters-in-special-education.comlists/S-types-of-social-skils- defi).
Emotional Intelligence (EQ)
Emotional intelligence can bring about maintaining a healthy and
purposeful relationship with others that may best depict a social’
literate person.
assertive and being aggressive; (4) selecting effective communication |
channels; (5) being flexible; (6) accepting criticism without being |Module 6: Social Literacy 91
Goleman (1996) «,
to: (1) recognize, un
recognize, understand
tis being aware
elines Emotional Inteligence (EQ) as the ability
derstand
and manage own emotions; and (2)
and influence the emotions of others.
e: that emotions can drive behavior and impact
people (positively and negatively), and leaming how to manage those
omens Both one's own and others’ when under proseure, especially
in times of: (1) giving and receiving feedback; (2) meeting tight
deadlines; (3) dealing with challenging relationships; (4) not having
erat eeaumees: (6) dealing with change; and. (@) experiencing
setbacks and failure.
Strategies for Enhancing Emotional Intelligence
Goleman (1995) laid down ways of enhancing emotional
intelligence in the light
of understanding and managing emotions that
teachers need to know and understand,
1. Think about feelings. A person has to be sensitive to one's
and other's feelings to come up with the right manner of
approach or appropriate response. For example, a teacher
has to be aware of hisiher students’ background or situation
that may trigger negative emotions. In that case, he/she would
know the right approach when dealing with sensitive issues in
class,
Pause. This is about taking a moment to stop and think before
doing anything to refrain from resorting to an unsound decision
at the height of anger. For example, at the peak of anger with
a student who commits violations, a teacher may gently pause
for a while and take a moment of silence to rethink and cool
down before jumping to any decision in order to avoid untoward
consequences.
3. Strive to control one's thoughts. This is controlling the
Feaction to emotions by focusing on one’s thoughis in harmony
with goals and values. For example, instead of overreacting to
a certain incident or situation in class, try to control negative
thoughts to see a myriad of colors at the end of the rainbow
among students. As such, try to find beauty in all things despite
not-so-good circumstances that may happen,
4, Benefit from criticism. Criticism, even not delivered in a
favorable way, is an opportunity to Iam and it gives idea on
how others think about you. For example, when a senior
teacher gives negative feedback on your work, instead
of taking it personally against himvher, gratefully ‘accept it
with humility ‘and appreciation, just think that it is for your
improvement.
5. Show authenticity. This is saying what we me:
say and we have to stick on to our values an
example, in times of confrontation with parer
we should clearly express our side with res;
while consistently upholding on to the principle
an with what we
id principles. For
nls, as teachers,
pect and sincerity
le and truth behind92
BUROING ANO EnnaNCING New LiteRacies Acaoss THE CURRICULUM
12.
13.
10.
1.
the issue in order to avoid resorting to heated argument an,
conflict at the end.
Demonstrate empathy. Whenever we show empathy
others, such as understanding their thoughts and feelings,
can easily establish a connection with them. As teachers,
should reach out to students who are in their worse sitvatio
and try to understand them and feel as if we were in the sa
boat. ea
Praise others. This is by way of acknowledging a
appreciating others toward attaining self-fulfilment and building
trust. For example, teachers should give acknowledgment ar
Praise to students for their deeds that are worth commending
Give helpful feedback. Although negative feedback may hut
‘one's feelings, at some t, it can be turned constructive
‘one's improvement. For example, when we receive negatis
feedback from our superiors, we have to take it as a challeng
toward becoming a better and stronger person.
Apologize. Saying sorry demonstrates humility, a quality th
will naturally win others as you value the relationship mor
than the ego. For example, whenever we commit mistakes i
teaching, whether big or small, there is nothing to lose whi
we apologize, even at times, doing it may seem to be ver
difficult.
Forgive and forget. Forgiving and forgetting prevent other
from holding emotions and allowing one to move forward.
example, when a student or a colleague hurts us, we should
ready to forgive and let go of the pains that somehow caus
us.
Keep our commitments. The habit of keeping one’s
in things, either big or small, develops a strong reputation
reliability and trustworthiness. For example, when we are gi
tasks in the school, make sure that we commit ourselves, oul
time and efforts into it, Remember, opportunities may onl
come once, therefore, grab every opportunity that may comé
along our way for it may never come again.
Help others. One way to positively ‘win others is throu
helping them because listening to and helping them can bi
trust and inspire them to follow. For example, in every school
activity, we have to find ways to help others accomplish theit
tasks successfully. In return, they will be grateful to us
Protect ourselves from emotional sabotage. This is being
wise enough in protecting ourselves when others attempt (0
manipulate our emotions for personal sake. For example,
when we feel that someone has been excessively or wrongly
controlling our actions, feelings and decisions in school, stop it
in any right but subtle and courteous way possible.Module 6: Social Literacy 93
Recommended Tools in Enhancing Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence can be enhanced in school with the help of
the following tools and strategies.
1. Emotional Literacy Workshop. This will help teachers to
communicate with students, recognize and manage emotions
and increase self -awareness,
2. Emotional Literacy Museum. It is a self-directed learning
experience that teaches about the physiology of emotions,
emotional regulation, and emotional literacy.
3. Mixed Emotions Cards. It is a beautiful deck of “tarot-like” cards
Of feelings (labeled with feelings and synonyms).
4. eMotion Cards. It is an evocative, playful moon face illustration
of emotions (open-ended without labels).
8. Biodots. It is a simple reminder that emotions are part of our
physiology.
6. Bingo Emotions. It is typically .a classic “bingo” game played
with emotions.
7. Feeling Faces. These are photos of real people and data about
how survey respondents evaluated each picture.
8 Six Seconds Emotional intelligence Assessment. It provides
feedback about the way one uses EQ and how to improve in
this area. (itp:tiwwn.6seconds.ory/2018/02/27/emotiona-inteligence-ts-
awareness)
9. The Zoo: Animal Workshop.. It is an activity that intends
to imitate an animal behavior and gesture that ends with
reflections and group sharing.
10. Face Workshop. It is an activity, in which partners'face each
other while showing different facial expressions and qualities
that ends with reflections.
11. The Machine Transformer. Participants in groups have to
transform into an assigned machine ot vehicle, of which each
member shall comprise different parts, deemed essentials and
equally important that usually ends up with interactions and
reflections.
12. Tower Building. Groups will be tasked to build a tower using
pop sticks and straws. The goal is to make the tallest and
Strongest tower of all. This will end up with interactions,
sharing, open forums and patching of emotional barriers.
13. Build Me a House. The participants in groups will be tasked to
build a house using any available material around them. The
goal is to make the strongest house. Then, the facilitator will
Shddenly destroy the house made by the group and observe
the members’ emotions and reactions and let them express
their feelings and thoughts. At the end, each one will draw
realizations, lessons and values for reflection94
Butoins ano EnwancinG New Literacies Across THe CURRICULUM
14, Internalization Activity. This is an activity that helps participang
to reflect on the ren of the facilitator with a backgroung
music in a dim and candle lighted room. Everyone can expreg
his/her emotions and feelings of resentment, remorse, agony
disappointment, and sadness. :
15. Mirroring and Unmasking Activity. Each participant s}
prepare a piece of paper and put it at his/her back In
Circular formation, everyone has to write that person’s negati
attitude on that paper. Everyone will be given time to see tho
feedbacks and refiect on them while they are also give
chance to express themselves. These negative feedbacks
be called masks to be torn-off and burned at the end of
activity and they will be led to a prayer for self-renewal
rejuvenation.
Ten Characteristics of an Emotionally Intelligent Person
(Connors, 2018) :
The following are indicators and manifestations of an emotio
intelligent person that have to be considered and demonstrate
schools.
1. Empathy. Empathy is the capacity to understand or feel
another person is experiencing from within their frar
reference. z
Greater Good Science Center in UC Berkeley laid down b
different types of empathy, namely: (a) Affective empathy -
{o the sensations and feelings that one gets in respon:
others’ emotions including mirroring what that person is
or just feeling stressed when he/she detects another's
anxiety; (b) Cognitive empathy (sometimes called "persp
taking") - refers to one's ability to identify and understand -
people’s emotions.
2. Self-awareness. It is the art of under
recognizing the stimuli that he/she faces and preparing
manage him/herself, both in a proactive and reactive mann
3. Curiosity. It is one's willingness to learn
cne is curious, he/she is passionate and therefore, els
driven to desire to be at his/her best. ee
4. Analytical mind. it pertains to being critical thinker |
analyzes and processes all new information that comes fi
way and see if they can extract ways to improve.
5. Belief. It is the power of believing in one’s self, both at pl
and the future. It is a matter of affirming that people ene thi
in one’s life happen for a reason and that everything
ultimately turn out to be good,
6. Needs and wants. It is something to di .etwee!
that one needs versus things that vane a By a
establishing needs prior to fulfilling wants. 9.Module 6: Social Literacy 95
7, Passion. It is the natural desire, instinct, drive, ambition and
motivated love for a subject or someone. More so, it brings
Positive energy that helps sustain and inspire one to keep
going.
8. Optimism. It is about maintaining a positive attitude that may
‘increase one's Opportunities, improve. relationships and think
clearly and constructively,
9. Adaptability. It is an important recognition and the ability to
make or remake decisions in one’s best interest. It is also
determining when to continue his/her course, or when is the
time for a change,
10. Desire to help others succeed. It is becoming interested and
appreciative of the success and achievement of others.
People Skills
Like emotional intelligence and social skills, people skills have
been widely used in demonstrating social literacy at home, in school or
anywhere that a person may be.
According to Wikipedia, people skills are patterns of behavior
and behavioral interactions. For Thompson (2009), this is an area of
exploration about how a person behaves and how helshe is perceived
lrespective of histher thinking and feeling. Honey (2001) defines
it as. the dynamics between personal ecology (cognitive, affective,
physical and spiritual dimensions) and its function with other people's
personality styles in numerous environments (life events, institutions,
challenges, etc.),
On the other hand, people skills are tools used to communicate
and interact effectively with others. Therefore, individuals with strong
people skills are able to predict behavior, relate to others and socialize
easily.
People skills can also be defined in three sets of abilities: (1)
personal effectiveness or about how one comes across with others;
(2) interaction ability or how well one predicts and decodes behavior,
and (3) intercede easily or ability to lead, influence and build bridges
between people.
Moreover, people skills are the ability to accept, appreciate
and admire others on a personal or professional level. Good people
skills extend to the ability to listen and empathize with others, as
well as work toward common goals with them. Therefore, these
are sets of skills that enable a person to get along with others,
communicate ideas effectively, resolve conflicts and achieve personal
or professional goals.
In general, Portland Business Journal describes people skills as
(Ritkin, 2009):
4. Ability to effectively com.vunicate, understand and empathize
2. Ability to interact with others respectfully and develop
productive working relationship to minimize conflict and96
Buon ano Ennanciis New Literacies Across THE CURRICULUM,
maximize rapport
3. Ability to. build sincerty and tust, moderate Pehavig,
(less impulsive) and enhance aggreablen'
i Is are import
Educational impact of People Skills. People ski ant
for teachers in effective classroom management. Knowing how t
communicate and teach people instead of simply teac! ria their
subjects will help make a difference in the classroom (Bolton,
2009). Accordingly, almost 50 percent of classroom Success
lies on effective interpersonal relationships, while the other 5)
percent lies within academic skills (Boyle, 2011). This is because
teachers tend to interact and relate with students. Therefore, they
need to learn how to practice these people skills effectively j,
order to create a healthy and conducive learning atmosphere jn
the classroom.
In general, people skills are an essential part of work, life ang
Socialisuccess. When one has strong people skills, he/she is able to:
(1) pitch him/herself; (2) overcome social anxiety; (3) communicate
ideas; and (4) influence others positively.
Strategies in Obtaining Good People Skills
McQuerrey (2019) presents the following strategies in maintaining
good people skills which are essential in a meaningful, joyful and
Purpose-driven life that teachers also need to know.
1. Good communication skills. Strong people skills in the
communication area include the ability to take in information,
clarify comments and participate in effective verbal and written
exchanges.
2. Conflict resolution skills. Having the ability to mediate
disputes and resolve conflict among others is an important
personal and professional skill. Hence, conflict resolution
involves the ability to clarify a specific dispute, listen to
perspectives in a non-judgmental manner and offer suggestions
for action.
The value of patience. Patience is an exceptional people skil
that is valuable in every profession. It involves being able 10
maintain an even temper, repeat and explain information a5
necessary and control anger in even the most trying situations.
5. Tolerance and understanding. Having tolerance and
understanding for the differences of others leads to success.
Tolerant people have the ability to accept differences, eve”
when they don't personally agree with them,
In general, there are § A's to improve people skills, namely: (1)
acceptance; (2) appreciation; (3) approval; (4) admiration; and (5)
attention. 7-
Ten
Module 6: Social Literacy
Essential People Skills to Succeed
The following is the list of soft skils for one’s self-reflection and
examination.
1.
7
10.
Being socially assertive. Social assertiveness is essential for
conserving social energy in the right ways. People with high social
assertiveness have more focused social energy and more clarity
in their interactions,
Crafting a memorable presence. People with great presence
take, it easy in making connections and are extremely good at
rapport building. Those with a strong presence can attract others,
are wellremembered and are likable.
Mastering communication. This is knowing how to present one’s
self and, in turn, gets one’s message across.
‘Sustaining lasting confidence. People, who can sustain lasting
confidence are able to conquer their shyness, avoid awkwardness
and get through their anxiety or overcome any nervous
tendencies.
Being an excellent conversationalist. This is essential
in communicating and interacting with others. Excellent
conversationalists are people whom others may be fond of
listening to and discussing with. Most interactions happen in three
levels: (1) The First Five Minutes: This is the first impression
and the time to decide if someone is worth getting to know; (2)
The First Five Hours: This is moving past first impressions into
rapport building; and (3) The First Five Days: This is the final
and ultimate level of trust and connection. Thus, a conversation is
the key to moving up these three levels.
Being highly likable. Likabilty is an important facet of trust by
through being authentic or genuine with their true selves,
Being exceptional at decoding emotions. People, who are
‘good at reading people, are exceptionally strong at knowing how
others think and feel.
Pitching ideas. Pitching is a very irhportant people skill because
happens all the time when one is asked for his/her opinion and
in introducing himself/herself.
Being charismatic. Charisma is the perfect blend of two essential
people skills traits such as warmth and competence.
Being an influential leader. Leaders in both personal, social and
professional life are able to gain camaraderie.
(Source: wwrw.scionceofpeople.com/people-sil/)98 Buon ano Ennavcrns New LiTeRacies
TESTING YOUR PEOPLE SKILLS
scale. Check the column that applies to you. _
‘Across THe CURRICULUM
Direction: Please rate yourself on the following people skill indicators using ,
INDICATORS
People Skill : Being socially assertive
Very
Much
1.1 set Imitation and boundaries in interacting with
others.
hg
2. Limmediately sense and address the needs of others.
3. know how to say "No" when needed,
People Skill 2: Crafting a memorable presence
1. Tleave positive impression to someone | encounter
with,
2. establish strong connection with people whom | meet
'3.| easily build good rapport with others.
People Skill 3: Mastering communication
1. am good in public speaking,
2. | present (opies, lessons and reports well
3. easily discuss big concepts in front ofthe crowd.
People Skill 4: Sustaining lasting confidence
1. am excellent in most social situations
2. easly overcome my fear and tension whenever I face
the crow.
3. Lam more excited than anxious when socializing with
others,
People Skill 5: Being an excollent conversationalist
1. | know how and when to engage in conversations and
Keep it going.
2. | make small talk into big talk during conversations.
3. use effective conversation fr rapport building and
socializing.
People Skill 6: Being highly likable
1. am invited to join teams, social engagements and
groups.
2. | am the ideal one that | want to become.
‘3. am always asked for
™y opinion on issues at a
during conversations Me
People Skill 7: Being excay
ope tional at decoding emo-
4.1 sense and determine people's attude and intentions
3. interpret body gestures and facial expressions
4. Thave the abiliy to understand tings ave
proof or evidence. ray)
People Skill 8: Pitching ideas
1. ean convince people to consid
ler or take my idea
ophioal ‘my ideas andModule 6: Social Literacy 99
ei i
(am confident in insisting on my ide
oa omen sstng on my ideas and op
Sina ry Mees pop
the group
conversation. group duting a
onl Skil: Boing charismatic —
7 accommodate people and aj
paren Pproach them, even
2 I provide my services to othe
os FS while addressing their
3. lam someone who can be easily depended on
People Skill 10: Being an influential leader
1.1 build excitement in leading people while performing
relevant tasks.
2. can determine members who can commit themselves
to the team,
3. make plans and try my best to realize them with
others
Interpretation: 325-40 VoryHigh 250-824 High 1.75249 Low 1.0-174 Very Low
DeLeon (2019)
Legend: 1 - never 2- sometimes 3-often 4- always
Integrating Socio-Emotional Literacy into the Curriculum
Schools that want to teach socio-emotional learning but confined
with classroom time can take a social, emotional and moral inventory
of what students are currently learning by involving: (1) a person's
emotional life; (2) an ethical dilemma; (3) a situation calling for
compassion; (4) a societal challenge; (5) the ethical use of knowledge;
(6) cross-group interactions; and (7) an implicit prosocial concept.
By integrating social literacy in the curriculum content, teachers do
not only give students opportunities to practice their social-emotional
skills, but also show them how integral these skills are in their daily
lives.
Hence, reviewing curricula through social, emotional and moral
lens is like a habit of mind that the more it is done, the easier it
gets. Obviously, the greatest benefit of teaching lessons like these is
that students can begin to examine their education, their decisions,
their interests and their relationships.through this lens, while helping
them cultivate a more thoughtful and discerning approach to life.
a QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION
1. What is social literacy?
2. Explain social skills. Cite the impact of social literacy and
singel ctrategies and tools to improve it.102 Buromis mo Ennancine New Lirenacies Across THE CURRICULUM
it h
Direction: Give at least four (4) people skills and write €2ch of thes,
on each head. On each shoulder, write Signs of 4
person possessing such skills.
LEARNING
REFLECTION
PEOPLE SKILLS
(SJeuraieucum APPLICATION
Direction: Design an instructional material that can be used in integrating
social literacy in a related discipline (i.e. Edukasyon sa
Pagpapakatao). Use the provided format template sample belov,
INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIAL PLAN
Instructional Material:
Brief Description:
Purpose:
Topic:
Subject:
Materials:
PROCEDURE