First Assignment

Summary
       
      The article "Sponsors of Literacy" written by Deborah Brandt suggests that anyone with an education grows in literacy by learning from the people in their lives. Each person has a unique experience in literacy based on family, economics, and society. Brandt describes sponsors as "...powerful figures who bankroll events or smooth the way for initiates." and argues that sponsors can have a positive or even negative effect.

Questions for Discussion and Journaling
      
      Agreeing with Brandt, I believe that class and race have a huge impact on literacy sponsorship. Growing up, Branch was exposed to new technology as well as having the support of his wealthy parents when Lopez had to expose herself to literacy. Also, Branch had to opportunities being a white, wealthy young boy while Lopez was part of the one percent Hispanic community. Therefore, having money and being exposed to higher technology was only possible through race and class in these two cases.

Applying and Exploring Ideas

      Coming from a white middle class family, I believe that I was exposed to literacy much like Branch. Growing up around new technical advances as well as having supportive parents have lead me to become the positive sponsored person that I am. My literary sponsors not only include my family but also, teachers, and community members. While Lopez had to mainly teach herself literacy. I have always had access to the literacies I've needed or wanted.

      This reading proved to be very interesting in the point that the surrounding people in ones life are described as sponsors whether they have a positive or negative effect. I found the description of the sponsored being oblivious to literacy exposure very eye opening. The interviews among those of different class and race and comparing the literacy experiences was something I wouldn't have thought about if I had not read the article. Brandt truly opened my eyes to the exposure I have had to literacy due to my sponsors.