Building a Foundation for Success

Good Evening!
Time to work on building a foundation for reading success. Using information from the last conversation, vocabulary is basic to understanding. In the process of giving directions to follow, it is necessary to take note of the vocabulary that causes some confusion in the learner. Does the student know how to draw a square, or find the right color to use, or recognize the difference in sizes? If the student does not know what a nose is, or what the word desk means, it is very difficult to follow the directions.

These vocabulary challenges can be met in daily routines while the student is working on directional vocabulary as well. Having the student find something in the livingroom shaped like a square takes only a moment. Looking for specific colors during a walk around the neighborhood will strengthen knowledge of colors. Counting the number of birds sitting on the fence will help to cement number value concepts into memory.

When a student is ready to use paper and pencil, drawing two big red squares, then three little blue squares, or four orange medium-sized squares will provide training for the directions, vocabulary, and listening skills all at once. Taking the vocabulary that seems to be challenging the student and incorporating two or three elements for practice can help the learner to reach success at a faster pace. The vocabulary becomes the foundation and strength that will lead to reading success. Concrete words like desk and nose just need to be drilled and repeated, much like when anyone is practicing vocabulary for a new language. What is the name of this? What is that called? Can you point to the desk? In this case, "practice makes perfect". Practice provides experience with vocabulary to make a stronger reader.

In the next edition, reading aloud with all stages of readers will be discussed and encouraged. Suggestions for shared reading will be provided. Until next time.......