The Most Basic Literacy Skills, Essay Example

As an adult, it is necessary to have at least the most basic literacy skills to function in the 21^st century world. These skills range from the ability to read signs that label buildings and roads to being able to utilize literary skills on technological devices such as computers and smartphones. However, in comparison to previous generations, individuals believe that there is a lesser need to have a proper understanding of spelling and grammar, as technological devices come with the ability to alter mistakes for us. This is simply not the case. Because of these technologies, we are writing more in a day than we used to, and errors tend to make adult communicators appear incompetent. Therefore, for the sake of personal communication and communication in the work place, it is necessary to develop a set of literary skills that include both drafting and proof writing to ensure accuracy.

In the modern era, writing typically involves the use of computer programs such as Google docs and Microsoft word. While these programs are able to correct common mistakes, their algorithms are not capable of detecting all errors. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the adult individual to ensure that their writing is coherent and easy to read. In doing so, these literary skills help these people perform their jobs more efficiently, since a majority of modern jobs require writing in some form, even if it is just through e-mail. In terms of personal communication, individuals who are able to communicate accurately are more likely to avoid unintentional conflicts with friends and family because proof reading allows the writer to think of the tone of the message and how it can be potentially misconstrued if it is not delivered verbally.

While literacy skills are necessary for the workplace and for communicating with friends, it is also helpful to have a basic understanding of language so that adults can continue to learn new things throughout their lives. Whether it’s simply reading a news article or taking a continuing education class, literacy is a major prerequisite to the ability to understand the world. Since many credible ideas have been recorded in a written format, comprehending these ideas is a necessary component of life, and those who do not have this understanding will likely have a difficult time getting by.

Furthermore, literacy is necessary for those who enjoy certain hobbies. As an adult, reading literature is a relaxing and fun activity to perform after a long day at work. Individuals who have not gained basic literacy skills as children or as adults are unable to enjoy this activity because it is a struggle to be able to decode words. This is unfortunate because an added benefit of this activity is that it allows the brain to be active, which helps aging adults retain their mental health for a longer period of time.

In conclusion, it is necessary for adults to be literate in the modern world. Day to day life in the 21^st century requires reading and writing in both the workplace and in personal life, and the inability to write well or to decode messages impairs the ability of individuals to fulfill these tasks. Furthermore, literacy is an essential component of learning, and individuals who are illiterate have a difficult time absorbing new ideas through reading. Since these skills support mental health, it is helpful for aging adults to utilize them as much as possible. Ultimately, literacy is a way of life and a failure to be literate now has become a failure to live according to modern standards.