Experience Books
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A traditional book allows us to tell the same story, in the same way, to many different people. The story remains the same no matter who reads the book. Having read the book, people can discuss the ideas in the story with each other. The discussion may focus on ideas that range from concrete to abstract. Who was in the story? What happened? Or, why did the character do what he did? How did the character feel? If a reader forgets part of the story, he or she can refer back to the text. It becomes the reference for future readers and future discussions.Experience books are similar to traditional books in that they: Experience books differ from traditional books in that: There are many different ways to make experience books. Several examples appear in the videos on this page. Identifying the desired outcome (for example: communication, structured interaction, consistency of vocabulary, reinforcement of familiar routines) will help to determine the appropriate format and content. Question: What if the child sees ‘well enough’ for pictures and photographs; do I need to use tactile items? Question: Can I use both photos and objects, or is that confusing? Question: How many times should I read the experience book with the child? Question: What if the child does not like books or loses interest quickly? Question: We always talk to the student. Why should we use a book as a basis for communication? THE MOST IMPORTANT THING TO REMEMBER IS TO HAVE FUN WITH THE CHILD SO HE OR SHE WILL WANT TO DO IT AGAIN! Article by Sandra Lewis and John Tolla (2003), reproduced on Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired website: http://www.tsbvi.edu/Outreach/seehear/spring03/books.htm Approach to Developing Experience Books: Concrete to Abstract PDF Created by Kathee Scoggin By MaryAnn Demchak, reproduced from the Nevada Dual Sensory Impairment Project Newsletter (Fall 2008) By Mary Ellen Pesavento (2009) DO create a book based on the child’s experience, thinking about what is both interesting and relevant to the child: DON’T use miniaturized objects.
Articles
Creating and Using Tactile Experience Books for Young Children with Visual Impairments
Tips for Home or School: Making Object Books
Some “Dos” and “Don’ts” for Creating Experience Books
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DON’T adapt a commercially available book. Experience stories should:
DO use vocabulary and develop concepts relevant to the child’s own experience.
DON’T clutter the story with too much information.
DO write words (and braille if appropriate) on each page so individuals who are reading the book with the student use the same vocabulary each time the story is read.
DON’T focus on having the child read the text. Generally, students using experience books connect with the objects placed on each page.
DO use objects relevant to the child’s experience.