Page 22 - ELG2408 August Issue 491

SPECIAL FEATURE .

‘Like Mary Poppins on Steroids’

A variation on Loose Parts play for very young learners.

Name: Ana Demitroff Our language centre, like many, has been The learners explore and play, while the
Role: Director working with a younger and younger teacher moves around, interacting with them
Country: Spain cohort. For this reason, we have spent years through memorable micro-routines in English.
Age group: 1 to 6 developing an ELT-friendly alternative to The outcome is rich interaction; engaging,
Loose Parts play in the Very Young Learner learner-led sessions and an implementation
classroom. of the whole child approach as pupils
We swoop down with bags of bits based on develop more than just their English skills.
the themes found in pre-primary programs: It’s a lifesaver, but it can lead to hoarding
colours, sizes, shapes or specific topics, syndrome!
like transport. The materials are mostly
throwaways and unwanted domestic items,
but we also supplement with shop-bought or
second-hand materials.

Sunshine in the classroom! Storytelling with bits and bobs Can they build a rainbow?

22 August 2024