definition of literacy

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Literacy
http://www.unesco.org/new/en/education/themes/education-building-blocks/literacy/

Literacy is the ability to read and write one's own name and further for knowledge and interest, write coherently, and think critically about the written word. Visual literacy includes in addition the ability to understand all forms of communication, be it body language, pictures, maps, or video. And it is a fundamental human right and the foundation for lifelong learning. It is fully essential to social and human development in its ability to transform lives.