I was asked recently what I think the beauty of oracy is (ref. my recent interview). For me, it’s that magical moment when a teacher enables a class to have successful, productive, exploratory whole-class dialogue.
Here are some of its characteristics:
Everyone is listening – not just the teacher! Everyone in the room is thinking about what the person speaking is saying. They are trying to understand that person’s perspective and they are evaluating it – thinking about whether they agree or disagree with it.
There’s time to think. Students don’t rush to contribute and don’t rush others – they are thinking, processing, wondering. Everyone is aware that good talking requires good thinking.
Language of dialogue is used effectively. You will hear students saying to each other things like this: I want to build on what B said – I think he’s right that… …because… I agree because… I also agree and want to add that… I’m not sure I completely agree… What if…
Partial thinking is valued. Students know it’s okay to say what they’re thinking even if they don’t have a complete, fully formed response. They know that thinking together is messy!
Students elaborate, explain and give examples.
They ask each other questions. Please could you clarify what you mean by… How does that fit with what L said?
It can take a while to get a class to this point. You will need to have them really clear on your expectations, and the ground rules for talk.
But keep practising. It’s worth it.
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