Promoting academic discourse  in a dual-immersion second-grade classroom...

...because students need more than academic knowledge to succeed in the 21st century.

 

                                 Home        Learn More        Standards        Inspiration        About the Author

---

Quality Talk: Infographic

Quality Talk: Documentary

What is the impact of front loading vocabulary on the quantity and quality of academic discourse during paired discussion in a second grade dual-immersion classroom? 
The typical classroom has evolved in the 21st century.  The model of teacher versus student talk is one example. An emphasis is being placed on the value of increasing student discourse among students. Generally speaking, classroom discourse refers to conversation or communication in an educational setting. Effective communication is a life skill and necessary to  effectively convey ideas, ask questions and express their needs. Engaging in quality academic discussion is essential to student success in a 21st-century classroom and supports growth in social skills that are necessary to meet state standards; however, academic discourse isn’t happening with enough frequency. This research aimed to increase the quantity and quality of student discourse in a second grade dual-immersion classroom by providing vocabulary scaffolds to determine their impact.  Communication is also a skill, that like any other skill, must be taught and practiced. If taught and practiced in the classroom, the benefits of quality talk could extend into day-to-day life.  So, how can we get our students talking?