10. Putting it All Together: A Sample Series of Lessons Using the Language Experience Approach
The Language Experience Approach (LEA)
In this reading technique, your student dictates the language experience story. This approach works equally well with beginner, intermediate, and advanced students because you are using the student's own words and a story she already knows. Just remember to keep the story short and simple at first. The idea is to help your student to relax with speaking, listening, and reading.
Because your student is telling the story, she is already familiar with the vocabulary. By using her own words and a topic she knows well, you are building on what she already knows. This technique will build up confidence in her abilities to read, thereby motivating her to continue learning.
Required Assignment
Click here to learn how to create a language experience story through a series of videos.
These include before, during, and after activities. Estimated time to complete the videos and reading: 15 minutes.
These include before, during, and after activities. Estimated time to complete the videos and reading: 15 minutes.
Now go to "comments" and discuss how comfortable you feel using the Language Experience Approach. Read what others have to say.
Optional practice:
Then Pair up with a spouse, friend, or child, and practice creating a language experience story. Choose a before, during, or after activity to practice.
Read more about Language Experience Stories in the following resources. (Choose one.)
Optional Reading:
Tutor, pages 47-52
LitStart, pages 100 - 111
Online
- Creating a Language Experience Story
http://www.literacyconnections.com/InTheirOwnWords.php
1. Watch a tutor teach alphabetics to a student
Basic Reading and Writing Techniques: Part 1, Alphabet Study (9:34 min) These alphabet study techniques are especially suitable for basic learners. It includes a review of the previous lesson, new words and rhyming words, writing the words, and find sounds in an experience story.
2. Watch a tutor teach word study to a student
Basic Reading and Writing Techniques: Part 2, Word Study (9:45 min) In this video the tutor transitions from alphabet study to word study using an experience story. The student reads the story silently, then discusses unknown words. He then reads the story out loud, adds to the story, and practices spell tracing.
3. Watch a tutor teach reading and writing techniques using a map
Basic Reading and Writing Techniques: Part 3, Reading a Map (5:54 min) The tutor uses an atlas and a map to prepare the learner for his upcoming vacation. They practice writing place names and reading directions.