Words on the Bus is a book-embedded vocabulary initiative; featuring a read-aloud and coordinating dramatic play activities for children ages 3-5. Each month, one spotlight book is presented based on selections from the community-wide initiative Soar in 4. Students enjoy coming onto the bus and engaging in vocabulary introduction, play-based learning, and activities related to pre-writing skills; these skills all fill a pivotal role in kindergarten preparedness. As the weeks progress, students will also participate in a review of taught vocabulary words. VPK students and their families may attend a FREE SOAR in 4 Family Night to gain a free copy of the Books.
In 2021-2022 according to the VPK Assessment, 66% of students entered VPK with the Oral Language and Vocabulary skills needed to be “Ready” for kindergarten on the Florida Kindergarten Readiness Screener. At the end of VPK, 92% of children were ready! According to the Reading Rockets (2022), “Vocabulary plays a fundamental role in the reading process and is critical to reading comprehension. Children learn the meanings of most words indirectly, through everyday experiences with oral and written language. Other words are learned through carefully designed instruction.” Words on the Bus focuses on the designed instruction and reminds all families that children benefit from hearing unique and varied words daily and often. To help children be ready for kindergarten, spend time talking to your children, point out new words, and revisit them throughout the week in new examples. Read the full Reading Rockets article here.
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For More Information
Contact the ELC of Manatee County's Community Educational Initiatives Team
(941) 212-4996
communityengagement@elc-manatee.org
