“It teaches us how not to speak over people”

Look at these quotes from nine-year-olds about using talking objects during partner talk:

“I like it when we use the ‘talking stick’ so both of us don’t speak at the same time.”
“It makes it easier because it gives both partners a chance to speak without being interrupted.”
“The ‘talking stick’ is a good idea because it teaches us how not to speak over people.”
A teacher passing a soft toy to a pupil while two others observe

Modelling passing a ‘talking toy’ (Photo: Topsy Page)