What makes a good talk partner?

Two children in a classroom listening to each other during pair talk

What makes a good talk partner? Ask your pupils this question!

They could then write down a list, or you could scribe. For example – A good talk partner…

  • turns to face you

  • looks interested

  • asks you questions

  • gives you time to think

  • stays on task

  • challenges both of you to go deeper and extend your learning

  • doesn’t take over – gives you time to talk

  • knows who is supposed to start first

  • etc.

Their responses can be developed into a class checklist for high-quality talk partners.