Using Wordless Picture Books to Develop Oral Language Skills with Kindergarten Students

The purpose of this study is to study the oral language development of the average kindergartner, through the use of wordless picture books, as he or she is provided with practice in which to build oral language. The specific aim is to implore whether the addition of oral language activities using wordless picture books, into the regular kindergarten program, will enable students to better express themselves orally through storytelling, as well as to transfer that skill into orally dictating a written story. This study is significant in that, as academic demands increase in the kindergarten classroom, it appears that students are having a greater difficulty in demonstrating a preparedness for these demands. Oral language development, as well as crucial literacy skills that develop through the use of wordless books are discussed. Implications for educators and future research is also explored through this study.