Encouraging Identification and Communication: The Three-Period Lesson Plan

Encouraging Identification and Communication: The Three-Period Lesson Plan

Helping children build their vocabulary is about more than just teaching words—it’s about empowering them to interact with the world around them. The Three-Period Lesson Plan, inspired by Maria Montessori, is a proven, step-by-step method for introducing language in a practical and engaging way. This approach not only builds understanding but also helps children connect words to actions and objects in their daily lives.

Period 1: Naming (Introduction)

This stage focuses on introducing the object and associating it with its name.

  • Choose a Familiar Object: Select one object from your child’s environment, such as a spoon, block, or plate.
  • Introduce the Object Clearly: Place the object on the table, hold it up, and say:

    • “This is a spoon.”


  • Repeat for Emphasis: Say the word multiple times in a calm, clear, and engaging tone:

    • “Spoon. Spoon. This is a spoon.”


    • Example: During snack time, show your child the spoon they’ll use and repeat the name as you hand it to them: “This is your spoon. Spoon.”

    Parent Tip: Use objects your child sees daily—this makes learning relatable and meaningful.

    Goal: The child begins to associate the name with the object through repeated exposure.

    Period 2: Recognition (Action)

    This stage encourages the child to demonstrate understanding by responding to simple commands.

  • Introduce Basic Commands: Ask your child to perform actions with the object:

    • “Pick up the spoon.”
    • “Put the spoon on the table.”
    • “Touch the spoon.”


  • Provide Gentle Guidance: If the child struggles, guide their hand to complete the action and repeat the command.
  • Celebrate Small Successes: Offer praise or a high-five when the child follows through, even partially.

    • Example: During playtime, place the block and spoon on the table and say, “Pick up the block.” Then, “Put the block on the chair.”

    Parent Tip: If your child struggles, simplify the commands and keep practicing until they gain confidence.

    Goal: The child recognizes the object and connects the word with purposeful actions.

    Period 3: Recall (Identification)

    In this stage, the child actively recalls the name of the object and demonstrates understanding by identifying it.

  • Add Another Object: Introduce a second object, such as a block, and place both objects on the table.
  • Ask the Child to Identify: Give prompts like:

    • “Show me the spoon.”
    • “Where is the block?”


  • Increase Complexity Gradually: Once confident, introduce a third object, like a plate, and ask questions involving all three.

    • Example: During cleanup, ask your child to identify objects one by one: “Can you put the block in the box? Now give me the spoon.”

    Parent Tip: Turn this into a playful treasure hunt by hiding objects around the room and asking your child to find them.

    Goal: The child recalls the names of objects and demonstrates understanding through identification.

    Extending Learning with Practical Activities

    Once the child has learned three objects, reinforce their understanding through purposeful, hands-on activities:

  • Seed or Bead Transfer: Use the spoon and plate to transfer seeds or beads from one bowl to another.
  • Block Stacking: Encourage the child to stack blocks while naming them.
  • Using Plates: Incorporate the plate into snack time by placing food on it, encouraging phrases like, “Put the apple on the plate.”

    • Parent Tip: These activities not only reinforce vocabulary but also teach fine motor skills and practical life concepts.

    Reinforcing Vocabulary Throughout the Day

    Keep the learning alive by integrating the new words into your daily routine. Repetition and practical usage help children retain and apply their knowledge.

    Examples:

    • “Get me a spoon to mix my food.”
    • “Can you find the big spoon?”
    • “I see a small plate. Let’s use it for the apple.”
    • “Wow, this block is so tall. Can we find a small block?”

    Parent Tip: Use descriptive words like “big,” “small,” or “red” to expand your child’s vocabulary further.

    Why the Three-Period Lesson Plan Works

  • Clear Progression: The method gradually builds understanding, ensuring mastery at each stage.
  • Engaging Interaction: The hands-on approach keeps the child involved and makes learning enjoyable.
  • Daily Integration: Repetition in everyday activities strengthens memory and practical use of language.
  • Confidence Building: By focusing on achievable goals, children gain confidence in their ability to communicate.

    • By combining this structured approach with playful activities, you create an environment where learning becomes natural and enjoyable, setting the stage for meaningful communication.


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