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Talking About Favorite Toys

Purpose/Skills

• To describe real-life objects clearly enough to be understood by most listeners
• To build vocabulary and fluency of verbal communication

Materials
A selection of toys

Vocabulary
toy
show
tell
favorite

Literature Suggestion
Read Corduroy by Don Freeman, Golden Bear by Ruth Young, or any book that features toys.

Warm-Up
Read or review a book that features interesting toys. Point out the toys in the illustrations and talk about them, including what children like most about them.

Procedure

• Tell the children you are going to play "Show and Tell." Describe how the game is played.
• Each child shows a favorite toy by holding it up or pointing to it.
• The child then talks about the toy, describing it, and telling why they like it. Model one "Show and Tell" for the group and prompt children as they display toys, by asking questions about the toys: how they are used, how they move, why playing with them is fun.
• Ask for volunteers, but encourage every child to participate. If necessary, draw out any shy children by reminding them of toys you have seen them enjoy.

Enrichment
Ask children to describe their favorite things to do on the playground. Encourage a lively discussion. You may want to make a picture chart to record this list of favorite things.

Observation Assessment

• Proficient - Child says the name of the toy, tells a few things about it, and speaks clearly enough to be understood by most listeners.
• In Process - Child tries to participate, but cannot describe the toy or mumbles in a way that would be difficult for most people to understand.
• Not Yet Ready - Child does not yet attempt to talk about a toy, or speaks too softly to be heard.