Oracy around Australia Is the latest oracy program available from Sandpiper. Similar to other oracy programs,
it is a set of ten lesson plans which focus on oral language skills based at sound, word, sentence and text level. In addition this program provides language and
discussion exercises based on general knowledge, and some geography.
It is based on the book by Alison Lester called, "Are we there yet?".
Each set of two double pages provides the stimulus reading for a lesson plan. These
double pages end with Billy asking "Are we there yet?", a question most children eadily identify with. The program provides clear lesson plans, readily understood
by speech pathologists, teachers and teacher aides, and all the necessary supporting material for the language activities.
Groups are encouraged to tap inot a broader base of literacy, with activities that expand to the internet, scrapbooking, and powerpoint formats. The nature of the story
ensures that this oracy program will be applicable to a wider range of ages, from 6 and 7 year olds, up to 10 years.
As usual the support materials are clearly presented and available as blackline masters. children are encouraged to explore a variety of language genres or text types,
from postcards to traditional narratives, to aboriginal myths.
Of particular interest to some speechies and ESL teachers would be to use the oracy proram with students struggling with English as a second language. It would be useful
to work these students through this program, but helping the children to write a parallel story for their own country - sharing about places of interest, customs, myths,
food, communities etc.
Also of interest to some will be the email sent from Alison Lester herself, addressed to children who may be involved with this program in schools. I am sure she would
love to hear from groups of children who read her book, and enjoy the story and illustrations that she so willingly offers.
Cost = $40.00
For a few sample pages from the second lesson plan, please click below.
Another great therapist based resource company is Love and Reilly, and their web page is well worth a visit to see what is currently available. Their resources are well priced and feature Australian themes.
