I can show you the world
Communication and Language is a key area of learning and development in the Early Years Foundation stage. The Statutory Framework for the EYFS (2001) states that the development of the spoken language underpins all other areas of learning. That it should include back-and-forth interactions, quality conversations, and a language-rich environment. Reading frequently to children is included in this, and providing opportunities to use and embed new words in a range of contexts; story-telling, role play, and questioning.
I am in agreement with this holistic way of developing skills however, there is a technique that is often under used - narration. Narration is when an adult provides commentary on an action; this could be play, agreements, disagreements, feelings, writing, creative modelling; quite literally any action.
Here are some examples
I am building a robot using recycled materials in the creative area, my narration would go something like this:
“I’m going to build a robot today. What do I need to build my robot? I need a box for the body… Two long boxes for the arms… Two shorter boxes for the legs… I need to find something for the switches and buttons… Hmm… Maybe I could use these bottle lids? This cork would be good to push the antenna into… I need to use glue to stick it on top of his head. His head! I’ve forgotten to choose something to use for his head… Hmm… maybe this yogurt pot lid… I need to use sticky tape to attach it to the body, glue will not work…”
You are narrating your thoughts and actions as you are building the robot; thinking out loud and explaining what and why you are doing something while you are doing it.
This process is often seen when modelling writing for a class/group of children; thinking out loud and providing a running commentary for the writing process. Explicitly explaining the process, skills and techniques needed to write.
Current Picture
When children are developing language or learning a second language (EAL learners), it can be overwhelming and cause anxiety. It is difficult and a bit of a minefield; listening, speaking, reading, writing, a new alphabet, past tense and present tense differences, and phonemes very different to their first language to name a few. Trying to communicate their needs, wants, and feelings. Trying to understand what is going on around them, what the teacher or their peers are saying. What’s more, being in a new setting with different sounds and smells, and ultimately really wanting to play and communicate. And then, they are asked a question (to communicate). The person asking is now looking at them, waiting for a response. The child’s mind is racing, searching for meaning. Panic sets in and they are thinking “No entiendo… No entiendo!!! ¿Cómo digo eso en inglés?” All the while, the person who asked the question is still looking, encouragingly, willing an answer.
Take the pressure off
Whether the child is an EAL learner or developing language, we need to think of ways to take the pressure off while still enabling us as practitioners to develop, nurture, and building vocabulary and language.
Narration allows you to use language and vocabulary in context. It allows you to differentiate language and vocabulary depending on which children are around you; supporting children new to English or challenge children who have a good grasp of the spoken language. Using narration as your initial strategy allows children to absorb all the language, vocabulary, and grammatical structures without having the overwhelming pressure of using it before they are ready.
Another huge aspect of the framework which threads throughout is that children learn best when they feel safe and secure, when their individual needs are met, and when they have a positive relationship with the adults caring for them. Providing them with a safe and stimulating environment enables them to enjoy learning and grow in confidence. Children learn and develop at different times and rates, as does their language and confidence. So why not support them in this by using narration as your initial strategy?
Take the pressure off and show them the world.