Figure 10.4. Alignment Between the Capacities of Literate Individuals and 21st Century
Skills Identified by the Partnership for 21st Century Skills (P21), Committee on Defining
Deeper Learning and 21st Century Skills (DL), and the CCSSO EdSteps Initiative and Asia
Society Partnership for Global Learning (GL)Capacities of Literate Individuals 21st Century SkillsThey demonstrate independence.Self-direction (P21; DL)
Metacognition (DL)
Executive function (DL)They build strong content knowledge.Core subjects (P21)
Knowledge (DL)
Investigate the world (GL)They respond to the varying demands
of audience, task, purpose, and
discipline.Critical thinking and problem solving (P21)
Perspective taking (DL)
Communicate ideas (GL)They comprehend as well as critique.Critical thinking (P21; DL)
Analysis (DL)
Reasoning (DL)They value evidence.Informational literacy (P21)
Reasoning (DL)
Argumentation (DL)They use technology and digital media
strategically and capably.Information, media, and technology skills (P21)
Information and communications technology
literacy (DL)They come to understand other
perspectives and cultures.Global awareness (P21)
Social and cross-cultural skills (P21)
Cultural awareness and competence (DL)
Appreciation for diversity (DL)
Investigate the world (GL)
Recognize perspectives (GL)In the next sections of this chapter, five sets of 21st century skills and their relationship to the
CA CCSS for ELA/Literacy and CA ELD Standards are highlighted. These include critical thinking,
communication and collaboration, creativity and innovation (the “4Cs”), global competence, and
technology skills.
Critical Thinking Skills
The need for students to think critically is emphasized by the CA CCSS for ELA/Literacy and CA ELD
Standards at all levels and across all strands. Fostering critical thinking by marrying ELA/literacy and
21st century skills supports the development of students’ skills in literacy and responsible citizenship.942 | Chapter 10 21st Century Learning