Abstract. The present study examined the relationship between reading (i.e., rapidity and accuracy) and writing competences (i.e

The present study examined the relationship between reading (i.e., rapidity and accuracy) and writing competences (i.e., fluency, accuracy, and composition skills) of Italian children in the first and second grade. The performance of seventy-five children was longitudinally assessed over a 2-year period. Results demonstrated that reading and spelling were stable across the first two grades of primary school. Cross-lagged analyses suggested that spelling plays a pivotal role in the acquisition of formal literacy, especially within a transparent writing system like that of our Italian participants. Early progress in spelling becomes a resource for later reading acquisition. However, spelling did not correlate with the composition component of writing, suggesting the independence of these two processes. Results have implications for early childhood educators on the design and delivery of writing and reading instruction.

Key words: reading; writing; primary school;

Key words Plus: transparent orthography; emergent literacy; acquisition; dyslexia; children; language; fluency; difficulties; ability.

Research Areas: Education&Educational Research; Psychology

Language: English

Task:

Answer the questions:

1) What is this article about? It is about …

2) What special terms are in the abstract? Give the translation of them.

3) Find hightlighted words and explain their meanings.

4) Complete sentences with the words:

Ø Reading competencies: __________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________.

Ø Writing competencies:___________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________

Ø Early ________________ in spelling becomes a resource for later reading _________________.

Practical lesson #2

Problems of elementary education:

1. Read the definition of “elementary or primary education and complete gaps below:

· Elementary education prepares and introduces students to the very foundation of academic essentials. It is here where they receive a general education such as writing, reading, math, science, social studies and history (in the US, UK).

· classroom environment

· teaching competencies and professional responsibilities

· school curriculum and policies

· administrative/organizational problems

· _____________________________________________________________

· _____________________________________________________________

· _____________________________________________________________

· _____________________________________________________________

· _____________________________________________________________

2. Read the text and answer the questions: