Mod 9 Discussion: Oral Language Support in My Classroom

Key Principles for Academic Discussion: I would focus on pre-teaching vocabulary words. I would do this because students should always be introduced to new words. Knowing the vocabulary words ahead of time gives students an idea of what the story will be about. New vocabulary words should be added to a journal and referred to for current or future conversations. 

Another strategy I would adapt students to is to call on students randomly to invoke full participation from all. Why? Some students think because they know all of the answers that they should be called on "everytime". Not so.... 

I explain that I have to give everyone an opportunity to tell me what they know. I also state, "I  only want to hear from the person who I call on" because I need to teach to all not just those who are always raising their hand. This also allows me to see if those students know the answer or if they are struggling.