ECEC Conference 2018

Recent EDI data show that more of our students are entering school without the prerequisite skills needed for early literacy learning. What does this mean for Kindergarten and Grade One writing instruction? This session begins by exploring best practices that support pre-literacy and pre-writing understandings, including the role of cutting, painting, directionality, and fine-motor control.  We will then look at the BIG 5 foundational components necessary in early writing instruction: handwriting, phonics, planning, simple text structures, and vocabulary. Building a better understanding of each of these foundational pieces, we will examine how each component develops on the learning continuum.  Finally, we will explore best practices that support the development of each of these areas. Participants will leave with an enhanced understanding of how to support the writing development of their diverse learners: from those students who have barely held a pencil to those who are ready to start their first book!