Play in Primary Grades
According to Armstrong (2006), “ Play allows developmental requirements to be met. Play is a dynamic, ever changing process that is multisensory, interactive, creative, and imaginative. Play involves the whole brain to be involved and does not solely focus on academics” (p.73). Children are free to run with his or her creativity during play. Also, play increases the creativity level of a child. Children’s imagination will develop particularly through dramatic play.
Research by Edward Miller and Joan Almon (2009) supports the literacy component of play for kindergarten students. For example, “Children develop mastery by playing with words, rhymes, verses, and songs they make up or change. They tell stories and dramatize them. They are fascinated by foreign languages, especially when they are presented playfully in story, verse, or song” (p.54). Time set aside in the classroom specifically for play, enhances the opportunity for primary students to develop literacy skills. Thus, primary teachers need to incorporate play into his or her curriculum.
Research by Edward Miller and Joan Almon (2009) supports the literacy component of play for kindergarten students. For example, “Children develop mastery by playing with words, rhymes, verses, and songs they make up or change. They tell stories and dramatize them. They are fascinated by foreign languages, especially when they are presented playfully in story, verse, or song” (p.54). Time set aside in the classroom specifically for play, enhances the opportunity for primary students to develop literacy skills. Thus, primary teachers need to incorporate play into his or her curriculum.