Print-Rich Classrooms
Why should teachers include labels with both words and pictures in a classroom?
They help children connect spoken language, written print, and meaning.
What is the primary purpose of the Language Arts Center in early childhood classrooms?
To provide a designated space for reading, writing, listening, and speaking experiences.
What is the first step the text recommends when planning language arts centers?
Identifying clear learning goals for the activity.
What is one reason the authors say family partnerships matter in literacy development?
Families provide children’s first and most influential literacy experiences.
Define Milestone
A milestone is an important skill or ability that most children can do by a certain age. It shows how a child is growing and developing.
What is one purpose of having functional print such as schedules, job charts, and menus?
It teaches children how print is used in everyday life.
According to the textbook, why should the Language Arts Center include props like puppets or story kits?
They support story retelling and oral language development.
Why is it important to provide open-ended literacy materials?
They promote creativity and allow children to develop skills at their own pace.
According to the textbook, why should teachers encourage families to read in their home language?
Literacy development is strongest when built on the child’s primary language.
Define Nativist
Those who adhere to the theory that children are born with biological dispositions for learning that unfold or mature in a mature way.
Why does the texbook emphasize displaying children’s writing samples?
It validates children as authors and supports emergent literacy.
What does the textbook recommend teachers do before placing a book in the Language Arts Center?
Preview it to ensure it is developmentally appropriate and engaging.
According to the chapter, what should teachers consider when choosing center materials?
Materials must reflect children’s interests, cultures, and developmental levels.
What is one example of a two-way communication method recommended in Chapter 17?
Communication journals, parent surveys, or home–school notes.
Define Toddler Listening
The early stage of listening development where children begin to recognize familiar voices, sounds, and simple words. Listening is short, guided by curiosity, and supported by visual cues.
What does the text say about placing print at children’s eye level?
Children interact more with print they can easily see and reach.
Why does the text suggest offering multiple writing tools (markers, journals, clipboards)?
Different tools encourage experimentation and fine-motor development.
Why does the text emphasize observing children during center time?
Observations guide future planning and help teachers scaffold learning.
Why does the book encourage teachers to learn about family cultures?
Cultural understanding strengthens relationships and supports meaningful literacy practices.
Define Critical Listening
Listening to evaluate or form an opinion about what is heard, often involving reasoning or judgment.
According to the authors, why should teachers rotate classroom print materials regularly?
To keep print meaningful, relevant, and connected to current themes or studies.
According to the textbook, why is the physical arrangement of the center important?
A quiet, cozy space encourages sustained literacy engagement.
What does the textbook say about integrating centers with themes or projects?
Thematic centers deepen understanding and make literacy experiences meaningful.
According to the textbook, how can teachers empower families to support literacy at home?
By offering simple, practical strategies that fit each family’s routine.
Define Discriminative Listening
Listening to identify and distinguish between different sounds, tones, or patterns.