1. Chapter 3: Print Awareness
Teaching Reading Sourcebook 2nd Edition

2. Print Awareness
Print awareness is the understanding of the forms and functions of printed language.
Awareness of forms
knowledge of the conventions of print
knowledge of book conventions
Awareness of functions of print
knowledge that print is a communication device
knowledge that printed words are symbols for words in spoken language
See the Elements of Print and Book Awareness chart on page 73.

3. Print Referencing
Print referencing is a read-aloud strategy that can be used to direct students’ attention to forms, features, and functions of print through verbal and nonverbal cues.
Ask questions and make comments about print.
Make requests about print.
Point to the print when talking about the story.
Track the print when reading aloud.

4. Research on Print Awareness
Assessments measuring a child’s understanding of print concepts have accurately predicted future reading success.
The ability to understand how print works does not emerge automatically, but through active engagement with adults who point out the conventions and features of print.
A language and print-rich environment provides opportunities for students to develop print awareness.

5. Basic Knowledge of Print Needed by the End of Kindergarten
Children should
know parts of a book and how to hold a book;
identify book title and understand the difference between authors and illustrators;
follow print from left to right and top to bottom of a page when read aloud;
know the relationship between print and pictures and that the message is carried by the print;
know the differences between letters and words and that sentences are made up of separate words;
know that there are spaces between words in print;
know that print represents spoken language and contains meaning.

6. When to Assess and Intervene
Assess print awareness in the fall, winter, and spring to identify students who need additional instruction.
One-on-one informal assessments allow students the opportunity to demonstrate their understanding of print concepts and book handling skills by “showing” their knowledge.
Formal assessments for print awareness may be used for screening, screening diagnostic, and diagnostic assessments.
See the Examples of Assessment Questions chart on page 77.