Block Play

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STR2EAM Blog 3


 

Influences of Block Play on Academic Learning in Preschool by Kelsey Rasmuson


I rate this article 4 out of 5. In this article, I have learned several things about the impacts of block play on learning. For example, block play helps to improve mathematical and literacy skills. Additionally, block play is a social phenomenon where learners can develop vocabulary and language skills. The article has taught me that students must use language and spatial awareness when placing blocks. Moreover, the article helps me to learn how symbolic representation helps students understand that ideas and objects stand for something new, just like written words (Rasmuson,2019). As a preschool teacher, I will develop solid block play to allow students to engage in the sustained block to create mathematical and literacy skills. 





 

The Teacher's Role in Block Play | Foundations of Learning Series




I rate this video 4 out of 5😀😀😀😀.  After listening to this video, I have learned the primary role of educators in block play. I have learned that the most valuable thing for teachers is trusting the materials when teaching kids block play. In this case, I will use appropriate materials when teaching students to block play. I have also learned that the presence of educators is significant in supporting kids' thinking as they develop critical ideas of block building (Community Playthings 2:32). It means demonstrating genuine interest in kids, getting down to their levels, asking some open-ended questions, and commenting on building block play.

 

 

 


 

 

Changes, Changes " by Pat Hutchins


I rate this video 3 out of 5😀😀😀.  In this video, the speaker explains how wordless books encourage dialogue between teacher and kids by explaining what happens in pictures (Joyful Learning for Young Minds 1:27). After listening to this video, as a kindergarten teacher, I have learned how the absence of words helps children to read stories by interpreting every illustration. I have also known that discussing pictures making predictions on what is happening, and creating own words for stories are some of the effective ways of promoting literacy skills while at the same time helping kids experience books together.






Extension Activities 

S-Experiment with the blocks, how many blocks will it take to make a stairway

T-Video to help build a block tower on the iPad

R-Read When I build with blocks by Niki Alling

R-1 Kings 6:7 In building the temple, only blocks dressed at the quarry were used, and no hammer, chisel or any other iron tool was heard at the temple site while it was being built.

E-Build a block maze activity

A-Draw a block building, color or paint once finished

M-Count the blocks, add and subtract blocks, measure the blocks, determine what are the block shapes.

Books





 References

Community Playthings. (2017, February 27). Foundations of Learning: Teacher's role in block play [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/mN3rKe2z9sA

 Counsell, S., Escalada, L., Geiken, R., Sander, M., Uhlenberg, J., Van Meeteren, B., Yoshizawa, S., & Zan, B. (2015). STEM Learning with Young Children: Inquiry Teaching with Ramps and Pathways. Teachers College Press.

 Joyful Learning for Young Minds. (2020, April 14). “Changes changes” by Pat Hutchins [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/bA6TsSOBExE

Rasmuson, K. (2019). Influences of Block Play on Academic Learning in Preschool.https://digitalcommons.csp.edu/teacher-education_masters/12

 1 Kings 6:7 (NIV). (n.d.). Bible Gateway. https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+King+6%3A7&verison=NIV


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