Week 4 Post

   In my placement I mostly see recitation rather than discussion.  I can tell because most conversations with the whole class are teacher-led rather than student-led.  Also, the questions asked require more factual answers rather than opinionated answers.  In a response-centered discussion, teachers really need to learn to take a step back and let students do most of the talking.  To get the conversation started, teachers can ask students how they felt at a certain part of the story or why they think a certain action in the story happened.  From there, students will be able to respond or ask a question to the entire class to obtain clarity on any possible confusion.  All in all, students are able to share their opinions and they do not feel pressure because there is no right or wrong answer.  Teachers should scaffold by asking questions to further students' interpretations.  There are a ton of resources available that have the potential to promote good quality discussion.  For example, in our Weinsten reading, we are given some great examples of props that will encourage shy students to feel more comfortable speaking out.  A few examples they gave were a special pen, a wand, or a toy.  Using a prop like this ensures that each student will get a chance to speak while also preventing outspoken students from dominating the conversation.  For students who are not as active in the classroom, there are many ways a teacher can scaffold.  For example, the Almasi article states that if a student gives a shorter response, a teacher can simply ask the student to provide a rationale.  Furthermore, if a student doesn't give a response at all, a teacher can ask if the student agrees or disagrees with the opinion just stated by another student.  Not only does this get the shy student to participate, but it also puts them in the position of the evaluator.