'You said, I think' – oracy structure

The You said, I think structure helps people to listen actively and build on each other’s ideas.

In whole-class, partner or group talk, ask students to begin their responses with You said…

Expect them to demonstrate that they’ve heard their peer’s point, before they make their own.

Photo: David Trent

By using this straightforward, easy-to-remember oracy structure, you will quickly improve student-to-student listening and start to develop respectful, thoughtful dialogue in your classroom.

Three examples:

Science

Student 1: Metal is a good conductor because heat travels through it quickly.
Student 2: You said metal is a good conductor because heat travels through it fast. I think that’s true, and that’s why pans are metal. Also they sometimes have plastic handles, because plastic doesn’t conduct heat so well.

Geography

Student 1: I think richer countries should do more to reduce emissions, because they produce more carbon.
Student 2: Okay, so you said rich countries should do more. Yes, that’s fair. I also think developing countries should get support to use greener energy, otherwise they can’t grow economically.

English

Student 1: Macbeth kills Duncan because Lady Macbeth pressures him.
Student 2: You said Macbeth kills Duncan because of Lady Macbeth. I agree that’s part of it, but I think his ambition might have been the biggest factor.