Following a Model to Enhance Play!

Sam took out the geoboards and asked me how to make a star. I decided to introduce the diagrams that came with the geoboards to provide Sam with a new way to use them. He homed in with rapt attention to the details in the diagram and the elastics, determined to to make what was illustrated. I pointed out to Sam how the illustrations had taught him more about creating shapes and suggested that he create shapes, letters and designs of his own work. He immediately took up the task, and started creating his own letters and shapes( a square, rectangle,the letter T and M).

Models and diagrams offer children opportunities for careful study, for learning to follow steps and sequences, and for working through complex problems. Reference materials with pictures and diagrams provide young children with concrete experiences in literacy development as they practice reading and using symbols for their thinking and learning. Think about your own children- meeting a challenge and working through it successfully is among the most satisfying experiences for them and you!