Primary and secondary school education plays a pivotal role in the child’s development. Students learn a lot of things during this stage. Moreover, students must have numeracy skills and literary understanding as well. With the right support, students achieve personal excellence and become productive members of society.
The question we are discussing is how a child can bridge the learning gaps between primary and secondary school. Different parents opt for different options to make this transition as smooth as possible. The options include private tutoring, tuition centre and learning from an after-school online tutoring platform, but it depends on which option your child better responds to. Therefore, you must understand your child’s requirements before you go for any of these options.
The transition from primary and secondary school requires students to build rich vocabulary. Otherwise, it can lead to a word gap for students. Word gap is a real issue and you must take it seriously to improve your child’s academic progress.
Students face a lot of problems. According to studies, children with limited vocabulary also struggle with reading, writing and composition. Moreover, word gaps also hinder their progress in studies. They lack fluency in reading. They can adapt to a high linguistic environment. Such students also do not adapt well to language classes. It affects their self-esteem and confidence level..
Why do Word Gaps Occur?
Primary and secondary schools use vocabulary in different ways leading to difficulties for the pupil. Teachers believe words are essential for social communication at the primary level. The teachers consider good language skills instrumental in academic success.
Hence, if the child is familiar with different words, they can communicate well with others. Moreover, they will not face difficulties in writing and reading. Having an excellent vocabulary will allow them to learn skills in a better way.
5 Ways To Bridge the Word Gap When Transition From Primary to Secondary School
There are many ways parents can do at home to develop the literary skills of children. We listed five of them below to get you a head start!
- Conversation
- Encourage Reading For Pleasure
- Discuss Different Types of Language
- Foster Structured Learning Environment
- Use School Language at Home
1) Conversation
The first step to improving your child’s vocabulary is to get them talking! Whether you’re out and about, watching a movie, or hanging out at home, try to involve your kid in conversation as much as possible. This way, they’ll start learning and speaking new words daily.
Moreover, try expanding your child’s linguistic abilities. You can do this by helping them practise at home. For example, set up a word puzzle or a language game on their computer. Also, you can ask them to use words in sentences.
2) Discuss Different Types of Language
When you and your child discuss something, you communicate with each other. Your kid will start to understand that not all words are created equal. Hence, by giving him a language blueprint. You can help him better figure out written and spoken language.
Furthermore, your child’s exposure to other cultures and languages boosts their learning skills. Discuss how our language changes depending on the situation. So, sharing such words can be fun because your child will use them in daily life. Teach your child the difference between formal and informal language. With a better understanding, the child can code-switch different terms. Moreover, your child will learn to fit other words into their social and school life.
3) Encourage Reading For Pleasure
Reading aloud to your children cultivates a love for books and reading, which helps in better vocabulary development. Further, reading audibly helps enhance phonemic awareness, and makes words more memorable. It also improves grammar skills. Furthermore, it helps your child learn how to read independently, boosting their confidence when reading.
4) Eliminate Word Gap Through Structured Learning
Creating structured learning is crucial for the academic growth of a child. Such an environment nurtures pupils. Hence, a student can better grasp different literary terms by providing a good learning space. It will also help your child build better vocabulary and increase their fluency in the language.
5) Use School Language at Home
The most effective way to help your child build a strong vocabulary is to use school language at home. However, you should avoid using jargon. Instead, you should use simple, descriptive words that do not compromise the meaning of sentences.
Building a solid basis in the early years will help them through their educational journey. Moreover, you could try to introduce new words each day! Try to discuss the meanings and how to use them in sentences.
Conclusion
Primary and secondary school is where children learn basics and move to advanced languages. Any linguistic shortcoming is not suitable for your children. It is always a good idea to seek the help of a tutor to address shortcomings. Moreover, a tutor can help your child build solid vocabulary and ensure a smooth educational process.
