Conceptual vocabulary shapes children’s thinking in the Early Years and forms the foundation for later mathematical and scientific learning. However, these words are abstract and often tricky to learn – and to teach.
Concept Cat is a tried-and-tested, evidence-based approach that supports all young children’s learning of conceptual vocabulary. Vocabulary is taught in a structured and engaging manner with explicit teaching of vocabulary followed by implicit teaching in play-based learning. The resource provides:
- A step-by-step guide to teaching 150 different concepts, using songs, stories and play-based activities
- A whole-class approach, which is accessible for a wide range of children, including those with limited language
- Guidance and resources for working with families to effectively support children’s learning
- Accompanying downloadable resources, including printable symbols of each concept, for immediate use in the classroom
Concept Cat is a complete guide to implementing this approach and an essential resource for Early Years educators, primary teachers and speech and language therapists. All you need is a cat toy to get you started!
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
- Section 1: Introduction
- Section 2: Implementing Concept Cat
- 2.1 Teaching Concepts Using the STAR Approach
- 2.2 Engaging Families
- 2.3 Focus Children
- 2.4 Planning
- 2.5 Involving Everyone in Concept Cat
- 2.6 Making Concept Cat Work For You
- 2.7 Extensions and Applications
- 2.8 Frequently Asked Questions
- 2.9 Measuring Impact
- Section 3: Teaching Sequences
- Section 4: Appendices
- List of 150 Concepts
- Resources Required
- Concept Cat
- Concept Cat: Teaching a Concept across the Week (Five-Day Planner)
- Concept Cat: Teaching a Concept across the Week (Three-Day Planner)
- Concept Cat Weekly Checklist
- Family Poster
- Front cover of the Concept Book
- Memes
- Song sheets
- Talk and play, everyone, everywhere poster
