Shepherd's Flock

What is an ILES? ILES is an Individual Language Experience Story. One child is randomly chosen to tell the beginning of a story (3 sentences). After the child tells the teacher each sentence, the teacher helps the class 'stretch' the sounds in the words and the teacher writes the sentences. Then, 2 other children (also randomly chosen) get to ask one question each about the story. After the author answers the questions in complete sentences, the teacher writes the sentences the child dictates using the same strategy as above. After the story is written, the author chooses a title for the story. The teacher then reads the story to the class and author. The author then reads the story. These stories build confidence while teaching phonemics, grammar, handwriting, and punctuation. As the year progresses, the stories will become more elaborate and detailed due to the natural teaching of writing that occurs during this time. It also meets a language arts standard for kindergarten in which children are to ask 'how' and 'why' questions. I will be sending copies of our class ILES' on Monday. Enjoy!