discourse
Research
Engaging students in effective classroom talk begins by creating a discourse-rich classroom culture. This article will help you to build this sort of culture as well as assess the quality of your current classroom conversations. It has practical examples and ideas to enrich discourse. Appropriate for all grade levels.
Jabari, Jelani. “How Rich Is Your Classroom Discourse?” AMLE - Association for Middle Level Education, NMSA, 2014, www.amle.org/BrowsebyTopic/WhatsNew/WNDet/TabId/270/ArtMID/888/ArticleID/459/How-Rich-Is-Your-Classroom-Discourse.aspx.
To promote quality mathematics discussions, students need to understand WHY discourse is important. This article will take you through steps to achieve a rich discourse culture in math. It addresses think-pair-share as a way to promote discussion and create a safe, risk-taking environment to increase the levels of reasoning for all.
Todd, Jeff. “How to Improve Mathematical Discourse in Your Classroom.” William H. Sadlier, Inc., 2018, www.sadlier.com/school/sadlier-math-blog/how-to-improve-classroom-discourse-in-your-math-classroom.
Much of what students are asked to do in lessons does not involve authentic communication. Authentic communication involves students using language to communicate a message to others, beyond getting points or praise from the teacher. Authentic communication also includes understanding messages from others. Teachers are encouraged to review the image/graphic in the article (building dispositions/mindsets) and the links on the right (especially Fortifying Speaking Skills).
Zwiers, Jeff. “JEFFZWIERS.ORG.” Research, 2018, jeffzwiers.org/foundation-of-communication.
This article explains how to support problem-solving through classroom discourse and questioning. There is a brief video that highlights using discourse to promote understanding. There is also a visual aid to help you focus your classroom questioning.
Moore, Sara Delano. “Home.” ORIGO Education, 2019, www.origoeducation.com/blog/classroom-discourse-and-questioning/.
This is a powerful video that highlights the importance of creating authentic relationships with your students to build a rich culture of classroom discourse.
“Facilitating Academic Discourse.” Performance by Steven English, Teaching Channel, 27 June 2018, www.teachingchannel.org/video/how-discussion-enhances-learning.
This is one chapter from the book Content-Area Conversations. It provides a wide-continuum of discourse options and strategies for teachers from an entry-level to an advanced level of proficiency. Classroom talk is the foundation for literacy and requires focused attention and planning. You will also find valuable strategies and ideas for cultivating this culture with your ELL learners.
Fisher, Douglas, et al. “Chapter 1. Why Talk Is Important in Classrooms.” How Student Progress Monitoring Improves Instruction - Educational Leadership, ASCD, 2008, www.ascd.org/publications/books/108035/chapters/Why-Talk-Is-Important-in-Classrooms.aspx.