Effective class discussions involve all students.
Effective classroom discussions get all students engaged with the material and thinking critically about ideas and questions. However, leading classroom discussions can be difficult, especially if some students are shy or reticent, other students always want to talk, discussions quickly get off-topic or students seem uninspired. These strategies help teachers spark and direct thoughtful class discussions.
Small Group Discussions
Breaking the class into small groups encourages quieter students to participate. Get students started with a list of questions printed on a handout or posted on the board, and circulate between groups to make sure all students participate and discussions stay on-topic. If desired, regroup the class after several minutes of discussion and have one person from each group share something her group discussed with the class.
Class Debates
Split the class into two groups and assign each group an opinion on a topic. Don't let students choose which side they'll argue; students will learn by arguing either side, even if they have to defend a belief they don't hold. Have each group come up with three to five different arguments for their opinion and choose a different person to present each argument. When the class regroups, alternate between the groups, listening to different arguments for each side.
Giving Questions Early
If students have trouble thinking of answers on the spot, hand out discussion questions ahead of time and have students jot down notes as part of their homework. Alternately, have students come up with two to three questions each as part of a reading assignment, and call on students to ask their questions.
Leading Effective Discussions
Arrange desks into a circle before a discussion so students face each other. Prepare some questions ahead of time, even if you want to use student questions. When asking questions, state the question, give the class five seconds to think about it, then call on a student. Ask students follow-up questions that encourage them to think out or clarify their answer. Don't ask yes or no questions; ask questions like "What is an example that supports that theory?" or "Where do you see evidence for that?" Always ask questions and give comments in a respectful tone.
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