Using a variety of community-based sites as learning sites can be part of a functional approach.

When following a functional approach, it is also very helpful to pursue authentic writing opportunities, such as reminder notes, letters requesting information, grocery lists, and so on.

As part of the SARC Literacy Needs Project, member agencies were asked to rank the importance of a listing of necessary functional skills. Here are the results:

  1. Personal Hygiene
  2. Self Esteem
  3. Anger Management
  4. Social Interaction
  5. Friendships/Relationships
  6. Decision Making
  7. Fostering Independence
  8. Sexuality
  9. Aging
  10. Stress Management
  11. Leisure Activities
  12. Using Money
  13. Nutrition/Cooking
  14. Living Independently
  15. Dispute Resolution
  16. Personal Finance/Budgets
  17. Relations with Staff
  18. Using Health Services
  19. Time Management
  20. Consumer Rights
  21. Using Transportation
  22. Citizenship/Voting
  23. First Nations Content
  24. Filling out Forms
  25. Schedules
  26. Caring for Children
  27. Stop Smoking
    Other Topics

"Community as Classroom"

Adapted from:
Gerard Girodano. Literacy Programs for Adults with Developmental Disabilities. San Diego, CA: Singular Publishing Group, Inc., 1996, pp. 145-156.