Tutors > Tutor Tips > Language Experience

Language Experience

To create a Language Experience story:

• Write Down :
  (print) what the learner tells you, word for word. Don't change the grammar. If the learner is speaking too rapidly, ask him/her to slow down a bit. If needed, ask open-ended questions. Your questions should have a conversational tone. Use this language experience in a variety of ways.

• Reading:
  Depending on your learner's skill level, either read the story to your learner or have the learner read the story. An alternate method is for you to read one line and have the learner read the same line after you. Follow along below the words with your finger then have your learner do the same. Supply words he/she gets stuck on and keep in mind what those words are.

• Word Bank:
  Ask the student to look at the story and select several words he/she would like to learn how to spell and read. List them under the story. Suggest adding some of the words your learner got stuck on. Keep the list at about 5-7 words per story. Use the words to go over syllabification, to recognize familiar letter combinations, practice new or difficult sounds. Use the words for spelling practice and in writing exercises.

• Hand Writing:
  Have the learner copy the story for writing practice. Point out that sentences start with capitals and end with either a period, question mark or exclamation point. You could also point out the use of commas, apostrophes, abbreviations, etc.

• Writing:
  Read the story again and pause at awkward or confusing points for clarification. Ask the learner how he/she might rephrase something to make it clearer to the reader. Edit the story where necessary. Emphasize that the learner needs to write what he/she wants to say so the reader will know exactly his/her intention.

• Use Words from the Word Bank:
  To create sentences. Suggest your learner keep a journal to practice writing. This can be shared or not.