1. The role of speaking & reading: Is there a relationship?
What is the relationship between language and literacy (reading and writing)?
Language is a prerequisite to reading and writing.
Language develops within natural setting.
For young children who can not read & write oral language is literacy.
Children need opportunities to speak & listen in order for them to develop

2. Listening
Many teachers today complain that children are not accustomed to listening.
They need to hear words being spoken so that they can speak them, read them, and write them.
If your classroom is too noisy or there is too much noise from outside you may to do something about it! Look at the Beaty text (pp 80) for ideas on cutting down noise in your classroom. Listen in games, storytelling, etc.

3. History of Literacy
1900s-1950s- more believed in readiness in 1st grade. Not much done before then.
1960s- better understanding about processes involved in literacy development (tones of theories and research were examined).
E.g., the role of oral language, listening & speaking, children’s need for models, etc.
This brought about the birth of emergent literacy (what is it class?)
Whole language vs phonics- a swinging pendulum? What do you know about this concepts?
Current research advocates for balanced literacy instruction.

4. A balanced approach to literacy instruction
Reading
Phonics & other skills
Use of different strategies
Vocabulary
Comprehension
Literature
Content-area study
Oral language
Writing
Spelling

5. Balanced literacy: What to keep in mind
Different theories & research.
Individual differences.
Situational differences.