Engage in Class Discussions!
Encourage ELL Students to Participate in Class Discussions
Using the SIOP Model....
By following the three techniques below teachers will create an effective learning environment with maximum participation and learning. The difficulties we encounter are the time restrictions that we face as virtual teachers.
Instructional Conversation
Echevarria, Vogt, and Short (2008, p.150) list best practices for Classroom Instruction/Discussion
-Teacher facilitates
-Many different ideas encouraged
-Oral language practice opportunities using natural language
-Extensive discussion and student involvement
-Draw from prior background knowledge
-Student level of understanding transparent
-Fewer black and white responses
-Mostly higher level thinking and language use
-Teacher facilitates
-Many different ideas encouraged
-Oral language practice opportunities using natural language
-Extensive discussion and student involvement
-Draw from prior background knowledge
-Student level of understanding transparent
-Fewer black and white responses
-Mostly higher level thinking and language use
Three Techniques to Encourage Students to Elaborate Their Responses
GIVE TIME!!
In the lesson preparation video #1, Vogt (n.d) states that students talk about 20% of class time. Giving students more structured talk time will enhance engagement.
GROUPING STUDENTS!
Having a variety of student groups throughout a lesson can enhance engagement and give different opportunities for student discussion. Continuous structured dialogue is most effective.
Encourage More than "Yes" and "No" Answers!
Echevarria, Vogt, and Short (2008, p151) give examples of ways to encourage elaborated discussions. Ask students to expand answers by saying, "Tell me more about that" "What do you mean by that?" "What else?" "How do you know?" "Why is that important?" and "What else does that remind you of?"
Don't forget to group students and add structure to discussion!
Create a Positive and Safe Environment for Students to Participate in
Always be sure to make your students feel comfortable and safe in class. Be inviting and encouraging so that students build confidence when talking.