I recommend asking your students what they think about different ways of learning. It helps them become more actively engaged and reflective as learners, and can provide you with useful feedback. So, when you try out a new Oracy strategy or game, or P4C, ask your class what they think of it.
I recently asked some pupils what they thought about using whole-class talk strategies in Reading lessons. One quote I really liked was:
“It feels like you're trying to solve something.”
It was good to hear that these pupils value the collaborative talk approach and find it engaging.
Use talking points to get students thinking and talking about a painting
A detailed description including building, helping, sharing and working together
How do they want to behave to become great 4C thinkers?
An inspiring podcast on using classroom talk in a rich and meaningful way
Pupil voice about whole-class talk in Reading lessons
Community-building activities which are good for wellbeing as well as vocabulary development
Encouraging pupils to think more deeply in reflection and talk time
If you’re not yet doing P4C – this video will convince you. If you are, it will convince you to do more.
Seven quick activities to develop talk, listening and non-verbal communication
After a term of working with me on Productive Talk, I asked teachers what the impact has been on their classes.