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An initial silent period, which may last for a very short time, or even months, is a
natural stage when learning a language. Toddlers do not begin to speak until they are
about 1 year old or even older they are however listening and imitating the sounds
they hear around them.
English as an Additional Language (EAL) pupils may also exhibit a Silent
Period This is also part of normal development and children are not passive at this
stage. It is a time for listening, and tuning into the language and routines of the
lessons. It is important not to make them feel anxious or under pressure to speak;
they are absorbing lots of information.
Clarke (1992) suggests 10 strategies for support during the Silent Period
summarised below:
If the silent period is very prolonged, then it is possible through first language
assessment to find out if the child:
has a social language that is age-appropriate
has expressive speech but obvious language difficulties
is an elective mute they may appear to be but some will then speak in First
Language during assessment!
Babcock Education
Babcock Education