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Learning Theory and Concepts

Emergent Literacy

Foundational and Developmental Learning Concepts

Emergent literacy describes a child's knowledge of reading and writing before they can actually read or write words, reflecting the view that in a literate society even one- and two-year-old children are already in the process of becoming literate. With support from parents, caregivers and educators, a child can progress from this emergent stage to conventional reading. Its basic components include print motivation, vocabulary, print awareness, narrative skills, letter knowledge and phonological awareness. The concept matters in early education because research shows children develop the skills that prepare them to read years before they formally start school.

Facts
Core Claim
Emergent literacy is a child's developing knowledge of reading and writing before they can actually read or write words, resting on the view that even very young children in a literate society are already becoming literate. 1
Classification
Education Level
Early Childhood Education (ISCED 0) 1
Sources
1. Wikipedia: Emergent literacies
Wikimedia Foundation
  • Lead paragraph, first sentence
    Emergent literacy is a term that is used to explain a child's knowledge of reading and writing skills before they learn how to read and write words.
  • Lead section
    Emergent literacy is of critical importance in early education in light of research showing that children learn skills that prepare them to read years before they start school.
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