wads and work with their partner to answer the questions. This activity can culminate in report out by each group.
Conversation Speed Dating
Materials needed: discussion prompts and pencils
Students sit in two lines, facing each other. The teacher provides the discussion prompts on a worksheet. Students take 3-4 minutes talking about a prompt with the person sitting across from them. After time is called, one line of students moves one chair to the right. Reset the timer and ask the students to converse with the new person sitting across from them.
Final Thoughts
Classroom conversation is a powerful way to build knowledge about text. Identifying a reasonable goal and creating meaningful discussion prompts are the most critical considerations. As with any new strategy, it may be awkward for both the teacher and students at first, but with experimentation and experience, it will become more comfortable and productive.
References
Cain, S. & Laird, M. (2011). The fundamental five The formula for quality instruction. CreateSpaceIndependent Publishing Platform.
City, E. (2014, November). Talking to Learn. Educational Leadership, (72) 3, 11-16.
Fisher, D. & Frey, N. (2014, November). Speaking Volumes. Educational leadership, (72) 3, 18-23.
Dr. Craig has a Bachelor of Science in English Education, a Master of Science in guidance and counseling, and a Doctorate degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis. She has ten years of experience teaching university-level literacy courses at Missouri State University.
Work with students to identify rules of engagement
Make it meaningful
Set and communicate clear expectations
Mix it up
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