Innovation in Language Learning
Pre-literacy skills of children from socially disadvantaged background
Mariana Cabanova, Matej Bel University in Banská Bystrica, Faculty of Education (Slovakia)
Marian Trnka, Matej Bel University (Faculty od Education) (Slovakia)
Abstract
Preliteracy skills are foundational abilities that prepare children for learning to read and write in primary education. It includes important skills such as oral language and phonological and phonemic awareness (the awareness of sounds), as well as knowledge of the alphabet and an understanding of common print concepts (print goes from left to right and from up to down on a page.In this study, we present the results of a diagnostic assessment of preliteracy skills of children at the beginning of primary education. The results showed that pupils from socially disadvantaged backgrounds score statistically significantly lower compared to their majority peers. For this reason, it is essential to provide intensive support in education from the very beginning of education. However, professional development is essential for teachers to be able to provide this support.
Key Words: Preliteracy skills, children, socially disadvantaged background, teacher professional develompment, inclusive education
References
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