Claggett Creek Middle SchoolNovember 24th, 2014

“The surest way to attain reliable knowledge is through disciplined conversation.”

~Socrates

Where We’ve BeenWhere We Are,

&Where We’re Going

Essential Question:

How can we deepen student thinking about texts & tasks through speaking & listening that uses academic language?

Today We Will…

• Explore ways to develop critical thinking and academic language in a small group setting using modified AVID tutorials.

Student-to-Student Talk:Then & Now

WHO: – Increase student talk

HOW: – Initiate thinking through

sharing

WITH WHOM: – Student-to-Student, not just

Teacher-Student

WHAT: – Deepen student thinking– Increase use of academic

language

HOW: – Structures that require

advanced conversations

2010-11: Intro to Purposeful Speaking & Listening

2014-15: Developing Student-to-Student Talk

Small Group/Partner Talk

Advantages:• Safe!• Quantity! Maximizes the number of students talking• Requires Listening • Builds Confidence

However…• Quality is more difficult to ensure• Requires planning & scaffolds for deep thinking

Looking Closely at Small Group/Partner Talk

• How can we get to deep thinking & ensure use of academic language using these structures?

Modified AVID Tutorial Eva Olafson, Science Specialist

Reflecting on Modified AVID Tutorials:

What are ways this strategy might be implemented in your content area/classroom? •Record answers on an anchor chart

Exit Ticket

Where does this fit into your instruction? How would this small group strategy move student learning forward in your content area? What supports do you need to make this happen?