Teachers can use talking stems with students to increase conversation in small groups. But to hold students accountable, try adding the Participation Punch Strategy.
As you wander the room, it is very clear who is using the talking stems and who might need some prompting or assistance from you. I also find that the visual nature of this helps domineering students to adjust their behavior or reach out to reluctant participants.
- Create a Talking Stems Board with the stems that you would like students to use. I created 2 versions - one with all 4 sides for an independent group, and one with 3 sides for a teacher led group. Download them here.
- Place a board in the middle of each group and ask students to write their names around the edges based on where they are sitting.
- Place a single hole punch in the middle of the board.
- Explain to students that they can punch a hole next to their name every time they use any one of the talking stems listed.
As you wander the room, it is very clear who is using the talking stems and who might need some prompting or assistance from you. I also find that the visual nature of this helps domineering students to adjust their behavior or reach out to reluctant participants.
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