Example

Example:

Having just read Their Eyes Were Watching God, you are going to take part in a class discussion. The teacher has put six questions on the overhead, all of which are related to the themes of the story. Here’s how the discussion works:

The teacher reveals the first question. You’ll work with your elbow partner to confer about possible claims, or answers. You notice that the question could be answered with at least three claims. Those English teachers -- their questions are NEVER simple! In addition to the claim, you must also provide some textual evidence followed by analysis of that evidence. What does it all mean?

After four minutes, the question is opened up to the entire class. The teacher asks for one student to offer a claim that answers the question. Then, that student may call on another student, who will give evidence from the text to support the claim. Finally, the second student calls on a third student, who then analyzes the evidence given for the first claim. The cycle begins again when a new claim is presented. Claim, evidence, analysis. Claim, evidence, analysis. You get the picture. This continues until all claims answering that first question have been presented.

Moving on to question number two, then three, then….. You know that at this rate, the discussion will take two days, but, by golly, you’ll know your stuff for the test!

In addition to following this process, you understand that this is a formal discussion. The Pair/Share portion with your elbow partner might be informal, and as such offers you a chance to collect your thoughts. You might use informal, or conversational, language in that one-on-one situation. That’s appropriate. In the whole class discussion, however, formal language is expected and conventions of discussions must be followed. These rules include applying Standard English, using an academic tone, and choosing mature and formal words. Avoid slang. We know that when you’re talking with your friends, you use one type of language. We’re NOT going there. But in the classroom, academic language is the way to go!

Proper discussion etiquette is also required: Address and thank the speaker for calling on you. Listen actively. No side conversations. Electronics are put away. Summarize what you believe you’ve heard from the previous speaker before answering your portion of the question. Offer an alternative viewpoint in a respectful manner.

It might seem rather forced at first, but soon you’ll see that this discussion is interesting and mature. And, you’ve learned a great deal about the novel that you didn’t realize by yourself.

Drill

Create a graphic organizer that explains when formal and informal English language might be used.