English and communication difficulties at P level 5

The challenge at this level is to build up a bigger vocabulary and to communicate with others effectively. The mark-making aspect of this level isn’t addressed until speech is understood as being composed of words.

 You can

• Introduce new words gradually and in context. Encourage the child to show a consistent yes/no response and to make choices. Introduce new words to their choice–making where relevant. Ensure vocabulary is understood before moving on and don’t be afraid to revisit and repeat new vocabulary.
• Be creative - enable the child to communicate more sophisticated ideas by asking questions that lead to more profound understanding, even if they reply using ‘yes’ and ‘no’.
• Use topics that are of interest to the child; let them choose music, a drink, or what colours to use in art.
• Symbols can be introduced as part of a speech and language therapy programme.
• If a child is being supported through speech and language therapy, make sure all staff are aware and can reinforce it through practice.
• For the child who is verbal but struggles to understand concepts, support learning with visual clues and as much of a multi-sensory approach as possible.