Oral Language
What the experts say about oral language:
The purpose of learning to read and write is to enable communication from a distance, but the language that facilitates reading begins as face-to-face communication.
~ Rollanda E. O’Connor
A learner's first language is the foundation for second language learning, an important tool for learning, and an important component of personal and cultural identity.
~ Elizabeth Coelho
English language learners may not have sufficient English to readily express complex ideas, so teachers must respond in ways that facilitate ELLs' efforts to share their thinking and contribute their voices to classroom communication.
~ Kathleen Mohr & Eric Mohr
Read more about oral language!
-
Young Children’s Oral Language Development
- Introducing and Reading Poetry with English Language Learners
-
Extending English Language Learners' Classroom Interactions Using the Response Protocol
OVERVIEW of oral language
|
|
Knowing a language means following the rules of pronunciation and grammar and understanding the meaning of words and phrases in different contexts. Students must have this knowledge to be successful readers and writers, especially in the later grades. English language learners require time and support to develop the English-language abilities that are important for literacy. |
TEACHING oral language
|
|
Teachers can support oral language development by reading aloud daily and creating situations, including storytelling, that give students a purpose for using precise and more complex language. For ELLs, teach the basic words and sentences needed to communicate, and use visual supports, songs, role-play, and games. Allow students to read and write in their home language when possible. |
ASSESSING oral language
|
|
Observe and listen to your students. Do they demonstrate understanding? Do they express themselves using appropriate pronunciation, grammar and vocabulary? Can they communicate ideas effectively? Look at students' writing. Is there evidence that they distinguish between informal and formal language use? For all students, but for ELL students in particular, frame assessment in terms of progress over time. |
Featured Videos
Theme-Based Pretend Play: Building Oral Language and More (Little Gardeners)
Mystery Bag: Developing Oral Language Skills in Pre-Kindergarten
Inspiring Charms: Scaffolding Oral Expression and Narrative Writing
All Oral Language & ELL Recipes
The Conversation Station: A Center for Developing Oral Language and Vocabulary Skills
PreK - 1st
Pick a Play Area: Developing Math, Language, and Literacy Skills
PreK - 1st
Exploring Seasons: Using Interactive Discussion to Support Descriptive Writing
K - 2nd
Puppet Stories: Supporting Understanding of Characters and Setting
K - 2nd
Interactive Story Retelling: Encouraging Retelling with Picture Supports
PreK - 1st
