Words, Toys and Play: Oral Culture as a Factor in the Promotion of Reading

Abstract

This presentation shares the results of a reading and writing program, involving the transition from oral literature to the world of artistic production. Taking advantage of the cultural baggage of the students—sayings, tongue twisters, riddles and folk tales—the program sets a basis for establishing a two-way interchange in which teachers share their own experiences, and invite children to share the knowledge they bring to the classroom. The program contributes to building a successful history of reading by appreciating the sociocultural identity of the communities involved. It gives legitimacy to knowledge already achieved, encourages reading of new texts, and develops the creativity and critical thinking of both students and teachers. It creates a friendly openness to reading, and places importance on the meaningful training of readers, persons for whom reading ceases to be an occasional activity, and instead becomes a lifelong, engaging necessity.

Keywords: oral culture, reading, writing, literacy