Language Experience Approach (LEA)
Language experience approach (LEA) is an instructional method that makes the learning process engaging, and enjoyable (fun) for students, as well as personal, by using students' own languages, stories, and experiences. In this approach, students use their own visual perception to decode and recognize words (1. visual cues), they use their comprehension skills to make sense of words (2. semantic cues) and connect them with their real life experiences, they also use their sentence’s structure understandings that help them in reading and decoding (3. syntactic cues). These are 3 main cues that are emphasized in LEA.
This approach is also called asset-based educational approach. Because here, students use their own assets to learn reading and writing. Their assets include:
1. The words they know and can dictate.
2. Their knowledge of semantics.
3. Their knowledge of syntax.
4. Their knowledge of experience which is enhanced by the discussions about the experience.
5. Their growing knowledge of phonics and phonemic awareness.
(APSK12Video, 2018)
LEA Process
Shared Experience: The LEA process begins with something the class does together, such as a field trip, an experiment, or some other hands-on activity. If this is not possible, a sequence of pictures (that tell a story) can be used, as can a student describing a sequence of events from real life (Plb, n.d.).
Storytelling: After the shared experience, students share their thoughts, feelings, and reflections. The teacher or facilitator records these contributions verbatim, capturing the students' language as authentically as possible. This practice helps validate the students' voices and ensures that the text produced is in their own words, making it more relatable and easier to understand.
Text Creation: Using the recorded oral contributions, the teacher helps the students to convert the spoken language into written text. This process may involve collaborative writing, where learners dictate and the teacher transcribes, or they may engage in writing tasks independently based on the shared experience.
Reading: Once the text is created, learners read it aloud individually or in groups. This reading activity reinforces vocabulary, comprehension, and fluency skills. students may also engage in shared reading activities, where they read the text together with the teacher or peers.
Language Activities: The written text serves as a springboard for various language activities, such as vocabulary exploration, grammar analysis, comprehension exercises, and writing tasks. These activities are designed to reinforce language skills and deepen understanding of the text.
Reflection and Extension: After engaging with the text, students will reflect on their learning experience and may extend their understanding through discussions, writing prompts, creative projects, or follow-up activities related to the shared experience.
Watch the video to know more about LEA process, how it can enhance students' skills, early reading development, and emotional connections.
(Teachings in Education, 2016)
Benefits of LEA
Promotes Language Acquisition: LEA facilitates language acquisition by connecting language learning to students' existing knowledge and experiences (Chaves & Escobar, 2009).
Enhances Motivation: Personalized and relevant content increases students' motivation and engagement in language learning activities (Rahayu, 2013).
Develops Critical Thinking Skills: Reflecting on personal experiences and engaging in meaningful language tasks fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills (The Language Experience Approach, n.d.).
Encourages Language Production: Students actively participate in creating and sharing language content, leading to increased language production and fluency (Using the Language Experience Approach — the Literacy Bug, n.d.).
