Dear Prep Parents, The Language to Literacy model

Reading & Comprehension Decoding and Spelling Phonics Phonological Awareness Oral Language Auditory Processing

This year in Prep we will be focussing on Oral Language. The language to literacy model demonstrates the importance of developing a strong understanding of spoken language before written language can be understood properly. Playing with and practicing oral language helps children become better readers! efore children can learn to read, he or she needs to be able to make sense of individual speech sounds, speak in full sentences, participate in conversations, use correct grammar, follow directions, have an awareness of syllables !hos"pit #al$, rhyme !can, fan, man$ and hear the sounds and patterns used to make up words. %e will focus on these early literacy skills in Prep to create a solid foundation for children to become fluent, confident and capable readers. Parent involvement plays an important role in any child&s academic success. 'se the following tips to assist your child&s language and reading development at home. Draw your child&s attention to the sounds of his or her language with silly songs, poems and rhymes. (ubstitute and delete letters from common words to create your own silly sayings. )or e*ample, substitute T for + to change Tommy eats tuna to +ommy eats nuna. ,ncourage your child to talk in a variety of situations with a variety of people. -ake up fun and silly stories. .sk, /%hat steps did you use to make that wonderful0kite12 -ake a shopping list with 3unk mail that your child can read to you. e a good speaking and listening role model. .lways model correct language to your child. 4epeat back correct sentence structure to your child if he or she makes errors. )or e*ample, if your child says 5her goed to the shop& say 5yes she went to the shop&. 4ead to your child regularly !at least 6 books per day$. (elect a specific time each night to read to your child"one that is free from interruptions.

7n (emester Two our home reading and sight word program will begin. -ore information on this will be sent home later in the year. This is a very e*citing time as Prep children enter into the wonderful world of reading. Please be patient. ,very personal goal is a great achievement. Thank you for your support.