Training Guides for the Head Start Learning Community:
Emerging Literacy: Linking Social Competence to Learning
Module 1
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| Contents | Preface
| Introduction
| Module 1
| Module 2
| Module 3
| Module 4 | | Professional Development | Resources | Training Guides | |
Emerging Literacy: Supporting a Natural Process
Handout 6: Creating a Language Album
Part I: Background Information
What is a language album?A language album is a collection of notes, photographs, tapes, and work samples that document a child's development and use of language skills. Staff and families can use it as a planning tool.
Who should be responsible for creating and maintaining a child's language album?
We suggest that families, rather than Head Start staff, take the lead in maintaining a child's language album because language learning is rooted in the home. Head Start staff can provide the information and materials families need to get started, offer support, and make regular contributions.
What might be included in a language album?
For an infant:
- Dated notes about her babbles (11/8--stood in crib and said, mamamama)
- The words to a favorite lullaby
- A photograph of her playing peek-a-boo with her big sister
- A list of favorite picture books
- A list of words she said at home and at Head Start
- Examples of his scribbles
- Dated notes about his use of words and gestures (3/23--pointed to door and said, Out?)
- Dated notes about his understanding of language (3/25--got shoes and brought them to Dad)
- The words to a favorite song
- A list of favorite repetitive books
- Examples of her scribble writing
- A story she told, written down by a home visitor during a group socialization session
- A list of books she read with her granddad at home
- Photographs of make-believe play
- A sign made to protect an unfinished art project
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