For the past few weeks, we have been working with the class on the letters of the alphabet. Each week, we focus on a different letter, and come up with a list of words and names that begin with that letter. After we compose the list, the children each get a chance to practice writing that letter on our poster. The friends eagerly await the day we talk about the alphabet, and the think about which letter comes next. This week, we talked about the letter H, which was an exciting letter for us to talk about, as we have two friends whose names begin with the letter H. After coming up with a list of words beginning with H (including Henry, Harlow, and Horse) each student very carefully took their turn to write the letter.
Earlier this week, the children worked to put together the alphabet train puzzle. As they worked, they sang the alphabet and thought about which letter came next. When a friend got stuck, the others were there to help them along, and place the correct piece. This puzzle was nearly a whole class effort to complete.
Additionally, this week we also had a chance for each student to practice tracing the first letter of their name with dot paint. In a small group, each child shared the first letter of their name, which was then written on a piece of paper. Once a translucent tracing paper was taped on top, each student then got to select a dot paint and go over the letter. The children were very excited to complete the activity, also sharing the other letters in their name.
We began the process of introducing the alphabet as the students showed a strong interest in the letters, and frequently shared statements like E for Ellis or A for Ava. Once the children expressed the interest, we were able to expand on it by providing activities connected to the alphabet. In our classroom, we strive to not always have formal and explicit instruction with our students, but instead provide opportunities for the students to have exposure to material in meaningful and authentic ways. We look forward to continuing to find new and informal ways to learn and discover the alphabet together as a class.
