Troubleshooting a Classroom Discussion: Discussion Series Part 2 [S3 E73]
Listen to the full episode below:
Today’s episode is part two of our three-part Discussion Series, which will focus on troubleshooting tips and tricks. While there are so many times that discussions go well, we want to prepare you for those situations where class discussions don’t go as expected. We’re talking about those students who don’t want to participate or those discussions that have no clear ending in sight. We have strategies for these kids and more!
When we talk about classroom discussions we’re talking about students becoming active listeners and making valid contributions to the conversation. As teachers, we know that “one size fits all” doesn’t apply to a classroom of students and discussions are no different. That’s why we must be consistent and have systems in place for each and every student.
If you have been avoiding classroom discussions, it’s time to be proactive to allow our students to be comfortable and confident to express themselves within their school community. Lastly, if you’re feeling like there’s no way you can manage an effective classroom discussion with your current class sizes, we’ll remind you that Marie does this with classes of 40 students! It can be done and done well.
FREEBIE ALERT: To further support you in planning classroom discussions, we’ve created a FREE workbook for you! You can download it by signing up below.
Topics Covered:
Getting students that have fears and anxieties around speaking to participate
Differentiating for kids that talk too much or too little
Strategies for when conversations go in circles
What to do with the “listeners” of your class
How to get students involved in creating classroom discussion norms
Resources
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Related Episodes:
Episode 73, The Case for Classroom Discussions: Discussion Series Part 1
Episode 67, Banned Books Part 2: When Texts and Teachers are Challenged
Episode 66, Banned Books Part 1: Censorship in the Classroom
More about Brave New Teaching:
Join hosts Amanda Cardenas (Mud & Ink Teaching) and Marie Morris (The Caffeinated Classroom) in discussions about being brave, trying new things, and all things teaching! As seasoned classroom teachers, Amanda and Marie bring their experience, insight, energy, and oh, so many opinions and ideas... It's time for all teachers to take their classroom and teaching practice into their own hands!
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