Abstract:

This will be a written paper on methods of introducing the concept of information literacy to very young children using picture books and dramatic play. By using appropriate picture books and creative dramatic techniques, it is possible for children to begin to incorporate information literacy even at an early age. By introducing information literacy skills early, these skills can be built upon and serve as a foundation, as they are introduced to information literacy skills in their later school years. In the current world climate of information overload, being information literate is more important than ever and it is still considered to be “…a signal skill for lifelong and flexible learning situations.” (Wooliscroft 1997) By building on research done by Lawrence R. Sipe and Anne E. Brightman in “Young Children’s Interpretations of Page Breaks in Contemporary Picture Storybooks,” this paper will touch upon ways to begin to teach information literacy skills such as “point of view”, “key vocabulary” and “supporting evidence”. Sources that will be used for information literacy standards and critical thinking guidelines will include: National School Library Standards, Common Core State Standards and Bloom’s taxonomy.

Keywords:

Information literacy, dramatic play, picture books, story books, critical thinking.