Logo

This video illustrates the value of authentic literacy experiences for young children. The video begins with Xavier attempting to send a message to Wesley. Xavier asks Wesley how to spell his name. What does the request indicate about Xavier’s understanding of messages? Notice the peer scaffolding that occurs during the process, when Wesley encourages Xavier even when he makes mistakes. Wesley returns to Xavier to add Xavier’s name to the work. This step changes the intention of the message that was originally a message from Xavier to Wesley. How does the skill of name writing empower children? In a more traditional classroom, we might imagine that these two particular children would have to wait for their letter of the week (X and W) in order to have a similar experience. In what ways can we use this experience to advocate for authentic learning experiences across domains?

Run Time 2 minutes 35 seconds