Adult-led
Compile a large-format address book for the setting that encourages awareness of numbers, street names and alphabetical order.
Planned learning intention
To become aware of the elements of their address, to find it among other addresses and practise writing it
Adult:child ratio 1:4
Resources
A4 paper, ring binder and transparent pockets, list of addresses, envelopes (these can be home-made or 'recycled').
Preparation
Print out each child's name and address on a separate sheet of A4 paper in large type and an easy to read font. File the sheets alphabetically in individual pockets in the ring binder.
Step by step
* Show the children the book and ask them what they think it is.
* Talk about how address books can be used at home and work, and why we need them.
* Help each child to locate their name and address and read it out to others.
* Talk about the different elements of the address; name, door number, house name, flat name, street or road, postcode. Discuss similarities and differences.
* Encourage the children to think about why we need addresses and who uses them -the postman is the obvious example - and how difficult it would be to locate places without them.
* Encourage them to write their address on an envelope. They can then add a 'letter' to include in the envelope to deliver to someone at home.
Stepping stones
* A child with little experience may choose to observe others rather than engaging in the activity, or to use the resources randomly for their own purposes. They may recognise their name in the address book, and respond to elements of their address - for example, 'That's on my door!'
* A child with some experience is more likely to recognise and locate their name and to verbalise parts of their address. They may need guidance to copy their address.
* A child with more experience will recognise and readily locate their own and others' names. They may be able to recite all or parts of their address from memory. They will be able to copy the address easily and may benefit from using the 'Look, Remember, Cover, Write, Check' strategy when writing the address as this will focus their retention skills.
Extension ideas
* Add an alphabetical index and encourage children to use it when locating an address.
* Read The Jolly Postman by Janet and Allan Ahlberg (Heinemann, 10.99) and encourage the children to think of fictional addresses for story characters.
* Write and store each other's addresses as part of word processing tasks.
