RAN and RAS???

I love it when I can connect something “old” with something “new.” And I really get excited when I can share something with you that might have been a little neglected in your language arts curriculum. I know you have been to numerous workshops on phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, writing, etcetera. However, when I mention RAN in workshops I usually get a perplexed look. I’ve been doing some research, and I think there may be more to RAN and RAS than we thought. And, I think I have some ideas for how you can easily integrate it into your day. (I know, you can’t do ONE more thing, but just read on….) 

Actually, as you read over this you will realize you naturally do these things daily. When you read the morning message, big books, or leveled readers you are doing RAN. When you count on the calendar, read the world wall, play charades, or categories, you are improving RAN. RAN and RAS can be integrated into large group, small group, or partner activities.

WHY?
According to research by the National Early Literacy Panel, RAN and RAS are two variables that correlate with later literacy.

Rapid Automatic Naming (RAN) is the ability to rapidly name a sequence of random objects, letters, shapes, numerals, or words.

Rapid Automatic Switching (RAS) - Letters, colors, and shapes are located in different areas of the brain, so when you switch from colors or shapes to letters and back again it’s referred to as RAS.

RAN and RAS are especially predictive of reading and writing fluency. However, doing these activities with young children can be meaningful because they connect the visual with the verbal and require children to focus and pay attention.
                         
This link will give you more information and some sample activities.
Note! I think you could easily do these activities on a flannel board or with a pocket chart. 
http://d3tt741pwxqwm0.cloudfront.net/Nashville-TN-PBS/fluency-k-1/files/fluency-sample-assessments-ran-and-ras.pdf

This link will give you further insight on other simple activities you can do during transition times. How many cars can you name? How many words can you think of that rhyme with “bed”? Word retrieval and rapid automatic naming can also be improved with high interest games such as charades, password, Pictionary, etc.
http://dyslexiahelp.umich.edu/professionals/dyslexia-school/word-retrieval-fluency-and-ran

I hope you learned something new and interesting today. I did!!