I recently asked my friend’s nine-year-old daughter what makes a good talk partner. She replied They always listen to my ideas. I agree – listening carefully and showing attention is one key aspect of successful partner talk.
Try asking your class what they think are good learning behaviours for talk partners. From this discussion, create a list, and refer to it frequently until your class always use the behaviours on their list – for example turning towards each other, giving attention, asking each other questions, and so on.
Photo reminders
You could also take photos of pairs of children talking and listening well to each other. Include these on your slides or make a display, as another reminder about good talk partner talk.
Facing each other and eye contact.
Gesture being used when trying to convince a partner with reasons and justifications.
