Mike’s Blog
Strategies, Ideas and Insights for Teachers and Leaders
Tag: developing learner confidence
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How can you structure a formal debate in your classroom and use it to help learners speak confidently in front of their peers?
Formal Debate Discussion Strategy: Explanation A formal debate is a highly structured, turn-taking discussion in which participants are bound by rules designed to create a competitive, antagonistic (in the sense…
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A reminder of why think-pair-share works and how easy it is to use as the basis of discussion
Think-Pair-Share Discussion Strategy: Explanation Think-Pair-Share can stand alone, or it can be used within other types of discussion. As a method, its purpose is to provide a safe, accessible way…
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Why a little bit of distance can transform who speaks in your classroom, and how confident they feel to do so
Distancing Discussion Strategy: Explanation Some topics can be difficult for learners to discuss because the material is too personal. Equally, some topics can evoke feelings and emotions that inhibit discussion.…
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How sitting learners in a circle presents multiple opportunities to develop their speaking and listening skills
Circle Time Discussion Strategy: Explanation Arrange the room so all the tables are moved to one side and the chairs are set out in a circle. Learners and teacher take…