Talking+Partners

=Talking Partners = = = =When we ask children to respond to a question by putting their hands up the children who are quick thinkers have their hands up like bolts of lightening. More reflective thinkers can find this both distracting and intimidating. Some children opt out of contributing and usually only one person gets opportunity to give a response. = =Using 'Talking Partners' means all children are involved in the learning, all articulating their thinking. = = = =The following methods of using Talking Partners were shared in our Staff Meeting: =  = = = =
 * **Think - Pair - Share** //Children are asked after a question to stop and think of their response; then turn to the person beside them and share their thinking and ideas; When they have heard each other they turn back to the front of the class. The teacher will then ask randomly chosen children to talk about what their partner has shared.//
 * When reading a Big Book, the teacher pauses and asks a prediction question re. what will happen next. Children turn to the person beside them and discuss possibilities. Many responses can be elicited.
 * **Numeracy** - **Using the Thinking Group / Talking Partner structure:** //Children learn the rules re. one person talks at a time - demonstrating how problems are solved. The partner watches then has a turn demonstrating and explaining how they would solve the problem. When it is time to share the children may be asked what they have shown or watched.//
 * **G - L - P Walk;** //To start the day or as a reflection through the day, children are asked to pair up and walk with a partner. They are asked to talk about something they are glad about, something they want to learn and something they are proud of.//
 * Writing: //Using talking partners to plan and explore ideas; to edit and develop ideas; to receive feed back.//
 * Other times to use talking partners include:
 * News / Oral Language programmes
 * Brainstorming
 * Developing and Discussing rules
 * All topic / Inquiry work