Facilitating Discussion

Safe Space

• Get to know students

• Avoid public correction of errors

• Allow students to seek clarification in English/Chinese

• Provide frequent opportunities for peer interaction

• Let students speak when they are ready

Silence

What is going on during silence?

• Students are thinking

• Students don't understand

• Students are shy

• Students are don't feel like talking

What can we do?

• Give time for students to respond

• Rephrase what we asked or said

• Share own opinion or experience

• admit difficulty and ask another question

Simple to Complex Questioning

Start with simple questions, so students can build ideas and context. 

This line of questioning can lead to students understanding their topic more and more critical thinking.

EX:

1. What is your favorite food?

2. How often do you eat your favorite food?

3. Would you eat your favorite food everyday?

4. Would you replace all the food you eat with your favorite food?

5. If you replaced all your meals with your favorite food, what would happen to your body?

6. Does your favorite food have enough nutrition for a healthy diet? Why?

• Start with simple questions related to students

• Then ask slightly more challenging questions

• Ask a little more challenging question students can discuss in groups

Reflection

This can be as simple as reviewing or asking student what was talked about.

• Take a few notes on what students talked about and verbally review what was talked about.

• Write what students say on the white board, or type words on a projected document. Review the document at the end of the class.

• Ask the students what was talked about or what kinds of questions were asked.

• Have students share their answers to the whole class.

Phrases to Elicit Opinions

Clarification Phrases

Agreement and Disagreement

Other Useful Phrases