Early+Years

Early Years Goals and ICT []

For a general introduction to the use of ICT in the Foundation Stage see:
 * **ELGs** || **ICT - with web links for examples** ||
 * **Personal, social and emotional development** ||
 * **Dispositions and Attitudes**
 * continue to be interested, excited and motivated to learn
 * be confident to try new activities, initiate ideas and speak in a familiar group
 * maintain attention, concentrate, and sit quietly when appropriate || Almost without exception, children using appropriate ICT are interested, excited and motivated. Unlike some adults, they are unafraid of technology and confident to try out new activities and because they find the work so interesting most children have longer attention spans when using ICT.

 __http://www.angelfire.com/pa/rainbox/june.html__ (R) || Look at some great activities to stimulate Foundation children at:
 * **Making relationships**
 * form good relationships with adults and peers;
 * work as part of a group or class, taking turns and sharing fairly, understanding that there need to be agreed values and codes of behaviour for groups of people, including adults and children, to work together harmoniously || Computers are very powerful facilitators of groupwork. Programs which present challenges stimulate children to discuss and to share. Creative programs which allow children to produce a polished product raise self-esteem. Children are eager to show and tell about their achievements.

__http://www.bbc.co.uk/education/tweenies/__ (A) <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">For descriptions/reviews of software CDs see under 'Recommended software and websites' at:

<span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;"> __http://www.pin.org.uk/home/index.htm__ <span class="blacklink13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">__(R)__ || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">See 'School Office' or 'Car Park' at:
 * <span class="black16" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana; font-size: 16px;">**Communication, language and literacy** ||
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">**Communication**
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">interact with others, negotiating plans and activities and taking turns in conversation || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">Role play activities with ICT elements are perfect environments for developing a wide range of communication skills.

<span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;"> __http://curriculum.becta.org.uk/docserver.php?docid=2666__ (T) || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">See for example the stories on:
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">**Language for communication**
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">sustain attentive listening, responding to what they have heard by relevant comments, questions or actions
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">listen with enjoyment and respond to stories, songs and other music, rhymes and poems and make up their own stories and poems
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">extend their vocabulary, exploring the meaning and sounds of new words || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">Talking books on CD, on-screen Big Books, audio cassettes and interactive websites are all ways in which ICT can be used to present stories, music and rhymes. Usually these will be used with a teacher or other adult in the 'driving seat' with a group of children listening, watching and responding.

<span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;"> __http://www.bbc.co.uk/littlekids/stories/index.shtml__ (A) || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">The use of programmable toys can stimulate discussion and cooperative problem solving. <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">For full specifications and operating instructions for Pixie and Pip robots and lots of ideas and supplementary resources for using them in the classroom see:
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">**Language for thinking**
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">use language to imagine and create roles and experiences
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">use talk to organise, sequence and clarify thinking, ideas, feelings and events || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">Role play may involve use of the telephone and other office equipment.

<span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;"> __http://www.swallow.co.uk__ <span class="blacklink13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">__(T)(R)__ || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">See Digby the Mole at:
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">**Linking sounds and letters**
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">hear and say initial and final sounds on words, and short vowel sounds within words
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">link sounds to letters, naming and sounding the letters of the alphabet || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">Word games including matching, rhyming and first letter recognition are available on websites and as part of CD collections. These allow children to practice skills in a very motivating environment.

<span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">__ www.bbc.co.uk/education/laac/menu.html __ (A) || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">See 'Where do Hedgehogs Go?' in the Big Books section of the Classroom Activities on the Naace Primary website:
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">**Reading**
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">explore and experiment with sounds, words and texts
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">retell narratives in the correct sequence, drawing on the language patterns of stories
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">read a range of familiar and common words and simple sentences independently
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">know that print carries meaning and, in English, is written from left to right and top to bottom
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">show an understanding of the elements of stories, such as main character, sequence of events, and openings, and how information can be found in non-fiction texts to answer questions about where, who, why and how || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">On-screen Big Books can be used to help focus children's attention on print and to explore a variety of stories. After using any ICT children can be encouraged to tell what happened.

<span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;"> __http://primary.naace.co.uk__ (A) <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">More stories can be found on the BBC Little Animals Activity Centre at:

<span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">__ www.bbc.co.uk/education/laac/menu.html __ (A) || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">Clicker is a writing program which can be customised for early writers. Find out more about it at:
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">**Writing**
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">use their phonic knowledge to write simple regular words and make phonetically plausible attempts at more complex words
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">attempt writing for various purpose, using features of different forms such as lists, stories and illustrations
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">write their own names and other things such as labels and captions and begin to form sentences, sometimes using punctuation || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">The use of the computer for the writing of labels and captions allows children to achieve a rewarding finished product. Word processors can also be used for 'play' writing in role play. This work also helps to develop simple word processing skills and keyboard familiarity.

<span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;"> __www.cricksoft.com/cgfl/index.htm__ (T)(R) || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">See:
 * <span class="black16" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana; font-size: 16px;">**Mathematical development** ||
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">**Numbers as labels and counting**
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">say and use number names in order in familiar contexts
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">count reliably up to 10 everyday objects
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">recognise numerals 1 to 9
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">use developing mathematical ideas and methods to solve practical problems || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">Simple on-screen counters are available which provide a superb stimulus for talking and thinking about numbers. For example using the counter at the web address below the teacher could set it to count in steps of 1, stop the count at 6 (or 9 or 19) and ask the class - What will the next number be? What is one more?

<span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;"> __http://www.ambleside.schoolzone.co.uk/ambleweb/mentalmaths/bigcount.html__ (A) || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">See, for example:
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">**Calculating**
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">in practical activities and discussion begin to use the vocabulary involved in adding and subtracting
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">use language such as 'more' or 'less' to compare two numbers
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">find one more or one less than a number from 1 to 10
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">begin to relate addition to combining two groups of objects, and subtraction to 'taking away' || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">Mathematical games and activities are available on websites and as part of CD collections. These allow children to practice skills in a very motivating environment.

<span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">__ www.bbc.co.uk/education/numbertime __ (A) || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">See 'We're Going on a Bear Hunt at:
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">**Shape, space and measures**
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">use language such as 'greater','smaller', 'heavier' or 'lighter', to compare quantities
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">talk about, recognise and recreate simple patterns
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">use language such as 'circle' or 'bigger' to describe the shape and size of solids and flat shapes
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">use everyday words to describe position
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">use developing mathematical ideas and methods to solve practical problems || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">The use of programmable toys encourages children to think about space and position and make use of appropriate vocabulary for discussing these.

<span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;"> __http://curriculum.becta.org.uk/docserver.php?docid=2666__ (T) <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">The use of ICT enables children to practice different ways of sorting and grouping without the need to move objects physically. <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">See 'Sorting Game' in the Classroom Activities section of the Naace Primary website:

<span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;"> __http://primary.naace.co.uk__ (A) || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">See the article 'Autumn Walk' on the Naace Primary website (look under Curriculum Support - Science):
 * <span class="black16" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana; font-size: 16px;">**Knowledge and understanding of the world** ||
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">**Exploration and Investigation**
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">investigate objects and materials by using all of their senses as appropriate
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">find out about, and identify some features of, living things, objects and events they observe
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">look closely at similarities, differences, patterns and change
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">ask questions about why things happen and how things work || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">The use of digital cameras can heighten children's attention to visual detail. ICT presents lots of opportunities for 'whatiffing' ... exploring and asking - What would happen if I did this?

<span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;"> __http://primary.naace.co.uk__ (T) <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">Websites offer activities on the weather and the seasons:

<span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;"> __www.funwithspot.com/house.asp?locale+UK__ (A) || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">See 'Class Cafï¿½ or 'Timers' at:
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">**Information and Communication Technology**
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">find out about and identify the uses of everyday technology and use information and communication technology and programmable toys to support their learning || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">Role play presents opportunities to find out about everyday uses.

<span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;"> __http://curriculum.becta.org.uk/docserver.php?docid=2666__ (T) || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">For ideas for a seasonal nature walk see:
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">**A sense of place**
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">observe, find out about, and identify features in the place they live and the natural world
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">find out about their environment, and talk about those features they like and dislike || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">Trails in and around the school grounds can be made using tape recorded instructions to direct children's attention to the world around them.

<span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;"> __www.naturegrid.org.uk/infant/index.html__ (A)(T) || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">See 'All About Me - My Body' at:
 * <span class="black16" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana; font-size: 16px;">**Physical Development** ||
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">**Health and bodily awareness**
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">recognise the importance of keeping healthy and those things which contribute to this
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">recognise the changes that happen to their bodies when they are active || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">Computer programs are available which can be used in the context of a topic on 'All About Me'.

<span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;"> __http://curriculum.becta.org.uk/docserver.php?docid=2666__ (T) || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">See the article 'What are the most efficient strategies for It in the early years' on the Naace Primary website (look under Curriculum Support - Early Years):
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">**Using tools and materials**
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">handle tools, objects, construction and malleable materials safely and with increasing control || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">The computer keyboard and mouse are tools that require practice for effective use.

<span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;"> __http://primary.naace.co.uk__ (T) || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">See, for example, Design a house with Mr Bentley on Bob the Builder's website:
 * <span class="black16" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana; font-size: 16px;">**Creative development** ||
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">**Exploring media and materials**
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">explore colour, texture, shape, form and space in two and three dimensions || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">Many programs allow children to create paint and print.

<span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;"> __www.bobthebuilder.com__ (A) ||
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">**Music**
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">recognise and explore how sounds can be changed, sing simple songs from memory, recognise repeated sounds and sound patterns and match movements to music || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">Songs and music are available on-line and on CD:

<span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;"> __www.threetofiveyears.co.uk/activities/farm/farm.html__ (A) ||
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">**Responding to experiences, and expressing and communicating ideas**
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">respond in a variety of ways to what they see, hear, smell, touch and feel;
 * <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">express and communicate their ideas, thoughts and feelings by using a widening range of materials, suitable tools, imaginative and role play, movement, designing and making, and a variety of songs and musical instruments. || <span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;">Tape recorders and video or digital cameras may be used to record children's own music, songs and dance. See 'Weather Dance' at:

<span class="black13" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,Verdana;"> __http://curriculum.becta.org.uk/docserver.php?docid=2666__ (T) ||