Naming Objects with the Three-Period Lesson

Presentation

1
Invite the child to a table and place the three objects in a row.
2
Let the child handle each object briefly.
3
Period 1 (naming): hold up the first object and say clearly, "This is a whisk." Repeat for each object. Say each name two or three times.
4
Period 2 (recognition): ask, "Show me the whisk." "Put the ladle in my hand." "Can you put the spatula by the window?" Move the objects around between requests.
5
Stay in Period 2 longer than the others; this is where most of the learning happens. If the child points to the wrong object, return to Period 1 for that object without saying "no."
6
Period 3 (recall): point to one object and ask, "What is this?"
7
Only move to Period 3 if the child was correct in Period 2 without hesitation.
8
Invite the child to use the objects, then return them to the basket and shelf.

Extensions, easiest to hardest

New baskets of three objects from other categories (fruits, tools, clothing)
Naming parts of an object (handle, blade, lid)
Naming objects in the classroom environment without a basket
The child gives the three-period lesson to a younger child

Control of error

The adult. The guide sees an incorrect answer in Period 2 and returns to Period 1; the child is never told "wrong."

Ready to move on when the child…

Names all three objects correctly in Period 3 on a later day
Uses the new names in conversation
Asks the names of unfamiliar objects

Guide note

For dual-language learners, it is appropriate to give the name in the home language first (if known) and then in English. Choose objects the child is interested in.