Speaking and Listening Together

Oral language is essential for communication and relationship building. Strong oral language skills enable students to become good thinkers and to experience success in all aspects of school and life. Students whose oral language skills are well developed, find it easier to share ideas in a group and communicate their feelings. They are more likely to read confidently with understanding and generate ideas for writing fluently. In the early years of schooling, it is important that students have many opportunities to practise their oral language in a wide variety of contexts. They need articulate role models, clear feedback and positive affirmations. Students need to learn how to listen attentively to others and respond with relevant comments. They need to learn how to express their own ideas clearly and coherently. This unit of work introduces teachers to six different ways of building oral language experiences into everyday classroom routines. Each lesson provides a guide for continuing with similar experiences throughout each week of the year.