Speech, Language and Hearing

Literacy

Literacy is the group of skills that you use to read and enjoy books and other written materials (e.g., letters, magazines, web pages).

Reading and literacy involve many things, like:

being able to hear the sounds that make up a language
sounding out written words
recognizing some words without needing to sound them out
reading words easily and smoothly
understanding what you read
enjoying books and stories

Because written words are all around us, people who have problems with literacy can struggle with many activities at home, school, work, and in the community.

Current as of: February 1, 2021

Author: Allied Health, Speech, Language, Hearing and Audiology, Alberta Health Services

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This material is not a substitute for the advice of a qualified health professional. This material is intended for general information only and is provided on an "as is", "where is" basis. Although reasonable efforts were made to confirm the accuracy of the information, Alberta Health Services does not make any representation or warranty, express, implied or statutory, as to the accuracy, reliability, completeness, applicability or fitness for a particular purpose of such information. Alberta Health Services expressly disclaims all liability for the use of these materials, and for any claims, actions, demands or suits arising from such use.

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