To analyse a language episode in your setting or placement

Aim

To analyse a language episode in your setting or placement – for example, changing a baby’s nappy, reading a story, or supporting child-initiated play.

Evidence and reflection

You might wish to begin with an audio recording of part of or the entire language episode. You may also wish to ask a colleague to observe your interactions to allow you to obtain another perspective which can support your reflections.

Ask yourself:

How did you successfully scaffold the child/children’s learning through the language that you used?

What evidence is there to suggest that you were listening to the child/children’s utterances?

What evidence is there to suggest that the child/children were responding to your utterances?

Extension

How will undertaking this reflective activity impact on your planning for language activities in your setting/classroom next week?

More in this chapter

• To investigate whether your setting or placement setting provides a stimulating, welcoming, language
• To investigate your use of questioning within your setting
• To consider how children are supported to extend and develop their oral language within your setting
• To consider the extent to which you listen attentively to the children in your setting
• To reflect upon how you can use questioning to extend young children’s thinking
• To investigate whether your setting provides a participatory, active, language-rich environment