How Rich Discussions Impact Student Learning: Five Engaging Strategies for the Classroom

1. Welcome & Icebreaker – 10 minutes -Set session goals -Experience a collaborative discussion opener using “Tap In, Tap Out.” -Connect with peers through a brief check-in activity 2. Setting Expectations for Participation – 10 minutes -Define the difference between conventional and rich classroom talk -Explore classroom norms, roles, and SEL-informed participation expectations -Reflect on current classroom discussion dynamics 3. Teaching Discussion Techniques – 15 minutes -Learn a less-common protocol (4A’s or TQE Method) -Practice sentence stems and talk moves -Role-play the protocol in small groups 4. Using The Achievery to Launch Discussions – 20 minutes -Live walkthrough of The Achievery platform -View a sample video and review its built-in discussion resources -In pairs, create a discussion prompt using a video and the 4A’s protocol -Share and discuss strategies for classroom integration 5. Student Reflection in Discussions – 15 minutes -Model student self-assessment strategies -Create a student reflection question or a discussion exit prompt -Reflect on how reflection deepens learning and accountability 6. Action Planning & Closing – 20 minutes -Draft an implementation plan for two discussion strategies -Share ideas using Padlet or Jamboard for peer feedback -Final reflection: “What’s one shift you’ll try in the next two weeks?” -Q&A and access to resources for continued use

Fisher, D., Frey, N., & Hattie, J. (2016). Visible Learning for Literacy: Implementing the Practices That Work Best to Accelerate Student Learning. Corwin. This book highlights evidence-based strategies for engaging students in rich discussions and improving their literacy skills through structured dialogue. It provides a research foundation for using discussion protocols and feedback to enhance student learning outcomes. Alexander, R. (2018). A Dialogic Teaching Companion. Routledge. This resource provides a comprehensive guide to dialogic teaching, which is grounded in research showing that structured discussions can significantly improve student engagement and learning outcomes. It supports the idea of using protocols to create a culture of talk in the classroom. Hattie, J. (2009). Visible Learning: A Synthesis of Over 800 Meta-Analyses Relating to Achievement. Routledge. Hattie’s research emphasizes the significant impact of student engagement and feedback on learning. The book provides empirical support for strategies that involve student participation and interaction, such as discussion protocols and peer feedback.

Internet Browser: Ensure you have an updated web browser (Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Safari) to access online resources and participate in interactive activities. Document Creation: Consider having access to document creation tools like Google Docs or Microsoft Office for collaborative note-taking and document sharing. QR Code Scanner: A QR code scanner app (e.g., QR Code Reader) can be handy for accessing session materials and resources. Presentation Viewer: Ensure you can view presentations; a PDF viewer is recommended. Camera and Microphone: Ensure your device's camera and microphone function correctly for interactive discussions and activities. Note-Taking App: If you prefer digital note-taking, consider using apps like Evernote or OneNote. Please bring any necessary physical materials, such as notepads, pens, and chargers for your devices, to ensure a smooth and productive session.