Oral Language

Oral language is a key predictor of reading success. Preschoolers need to understand words (receptive language) and be able to use words (expressive language). Parents and teachers need to intentionally help children develop both expressive and receptive language skills. How do we do this? We talk to and with children to provide the words that go with their experiences. The more words they can understand and use, the more they will later be able to understand what they read.

Research indicates:

• A strong grasp of oral language including the ability to understand words (receptive language) and use them (expressive language) strengthens a child's ability to learn to read (National Reading Panel, 2000).
• The conversations that adults have with children are very important. They offer rich opportunities to increase both expressive and receptive language (Hart & Risely, 1995).
• The larger a child's vocabulary, the greater the child's phonological sensitivity - their ability to notice, replicate, and play with the sounds of language (Burgess & Lonigan 1998).
• The most powerful way to increase a child's vocabulary is within a context that is meaningful for the child (Burgess & Lonigan, 1998).

Increasing oral language opportunities in the community and at home.