Author: Lesley Hendy
Publisher: PCET Publishing 2006
The book opens with this statement:
We are fortunate enough to have a language of great beauty and colour. In the introduction of 'Speaking, Listening, Learning: Working with children in Key Stages 1 and 2 we are told: 'Language is an integral part of most learning and oral language has a key role to play in classroom teaching and learning'. We hope this book will assist you in fulfilling the teaching objectives and help you to teach your children to have a 'Voice for Life'.
In leafing through this beautifully illustrated and accessible book, I can only add the comment 'It does!' Targeted at teachers working with children in Key Stages 1 and 2, it is an invaluable resource to anyone seeking both to enhance their own understanding of voice production, and find creative ways to transfer that knowledge to children in order to improve their learning opportunities and sense of self worth. The physical exercises illustrated are of the children themselves in demonstration: stretching, breathing, and 'shaking out' their bodies in preparation for speech. And not a glum face among them! The physiological illustrations are uncomplicated, and a wide selection of exercises clearly described. The three main sections: Voice Production, Skills of Vocal Delivery and Carrying Power, are helpfully preceded by notes to teachers on attentive listening, vocal terminology' and the constituents of good voice production and delivery. At the beginning of each section there come the nuggets: 'What teachers need to know' followed by descriptions of exercises to build children both physically and emotionally as confident speakers.
A slim soft back volume of A4 size, priced at £10.00 and available on request from Head Office, it is a pleasure to look through and a great source of ideas.
Review by Phyllida Furse Development Officer