Good Start, Grow Smart Early Learning Standards - SC Department ...

A normal sequence of written work is:
1. Scribbles
2. Drawing and scribbles
3. Drawing and Controlled Scribbles
4. Drawing, Scribbles and Letters mixed
5. Drawing and Name writing
6. Drawing and letters
7. Invented spelling (primarily initial and final sounds)
Children’s development varies widely based upon their abilities and previous experiences. Differences should
be appreciated and respected. Children begin to be able to give the initial and final sounds in words and to
stretch out words to identify the letter names of sounds heard orally. Children at this age love to draw pictures
and have the adults “take dictation” from them and write the story under their picture. This is called Language
Experience and it helps children learn to write more quickly. Language Experience models good handwriting,
story sequence and details while freeing the child up from the use of a writing instrument. Teachers should
never forget that oral language development is still very important for the 5 year old child and should be at the
heart of every good writing experience.
Handwriting:
Like the 4 year old, environments for 5 year old children should be filled with a variety of writing paper and
instruments. In addition, many models of handwriting should be provided. Teacher made charts, name lists,
letter formation charts, lists of months, days and seasons, and other things which can be written by 5 year old
children should be provided. In addition, book making supplies and blank books should be included in the writing
area of the class. When appropriate, writing materials should be integrated into the block, dramatic play
and science centers.
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