Expressive Language & Written Language
Expressive and Written Language is fostered in SEE Every Child as children use their own voices, written words, or illustrations to describe experiences, tell stories, and communicate information. The following strategies support children’s understanding of written symbols and print in the environment, and support them to generate their own writing as they learn about content, communicate to others, and develop their identities as authors.
Guiding children to have the correct pencil grip is an important part of early writing and prewriting development.
Story acting is usually the most exciting part of the cycle for children. Establishing a routine around story acting is essential for a child’s story to come to life.
Taking dictation from the child is the most important part of the STSA process. Children are natural storytellers who are excited to see their words take shape on paper.
While journaling, labeling a child’s drawings and/or taking dictation records a child’s voice on the paper, while demonstrating that print records ideas and carries deep meaning.
A supportive teacher is key to children’s early attempt to do their own phonemic writing, through supporting children’s sound to letter correspondence.
Storytelling/Story Acting (STSA) is a simple movement based on the work of Vivian Paley. These routines and structures support meaningful engagement and learning.