Alright, so currently I have a great 9th grade class. They are actively engaged, do the reading, and participate in class discussion... unless it turns personal?
Has anyone else had this problem or know any strategies I can use to help the students feel more comfortable and supportive enough to talk about themselves?
I'm wondering if they just don't think what they have to say is important enough or if they are scared to share how they feel?
Each person will share their personal thoughts and reflections in partners, but won't do it with the group?
10-21-14 Follow Up: Yesterday I had a new approach towards the journal entry. After each student shared their views in pairs, I expressed how glad I was to see that everyone had so much to say about the topic and that it would truly benefit all of us to hear everyone's point of view.
I then continued on to reiterate my expectations for classroom discussion. Our mantra: "Be curious, not judgemental," was echoed and we investigated what that looks like in practice. I modeled the behavior and gave concrete examples of how you can respond when you disagree with someone.
From there, the discussion boomed! Everyone waited for each other to speak, and instead of expressing disagreements, the students posed probing questions, that really took our discussion to the next level.
Does anyone else have an activity you like to do to stimulate productive class discussions in your rooms?
This is a great class management win!
ReplyDeleteWhat I like about your update is that you provided a pretty rigid framework for discussing personal topics. Kids need to know the rules of classroom discourse, especially when personal and potentially sensitive subjects are going to be exposed. If a teacher creates a vague expectation then it makes it easier for a student to be vague or non-responsive.
The pair-share technique is great for getting shy students to participate. It also gives the teacher freedom to sit in on smaller conversations and then encourage specific students to share in a larger group context. Validating a small discussion builds confidence in students to take risks when the time comes.
ALSO, the modeling strategy has been the most successful strategy that I have implemented when it comes to personal writing and discussion. I expect my students to make connections from our class content to their real lives outside of class. They need to see that I do this, too, and that this is the way to lead a fulfilling life.
I wrote a response to this, but apparently it wasn't "published..." I'll have to share again later...
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