VIDBE-Q Volume 68 Issue 4
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Experience Books and Other O&M Books
Books and reading books are what usually comes to mind when we think of
literacy. In the spirit of books, creating them with learners during O&M lessons /
outings and then reading them later are fun ways to support literacy during O&M
instruction and beyond. O&M books can be particularly helpful in assisting
students to remember their experiences, routines, and routes or even document
their progress as they learn, practice, and master skills and concepts – the
possibilities for O&M-related topics are endless! As students create and read their
O&M books (either on their own or with others), literacy skills are supported by
turning and exploring pages; reading, recalling, and discussing; writing; and
interacting with others. Figure 2 provides some examples of O&M books and their
descriptions. Resources for more information about what these books look like and
how to create them are listed at the conclusion of this article.
Signs and Maps
Signs and maps are main staples of O&M instruction. Students learn how to
look for them, read them, use them, and even create them. Support literacy by
having students look for and read signs and maps (tactually, visually, or both)
while out and about on O&M lessons or during outings with family and friends.
Games, such as sign Bingo, and scavenger hunts are engaging ways to help
students work on both literacy and O&M skills. Figure 3 provides some examples
