Discussion is critical to successful language learning. Dennis Johnson talks about different ways to build discussion skills in the classroom.
At the intermediate level, Anchor 1 specifically calls out three different types of discussions: teacher-led, group, and one-on-one. Each type is important to the development of discussion skills.
Here is more information about the three types.
Teacher-led discussions
By being open to exploring a variety of answers and ideas is key to a teacher-led discussion. By asking follow up and clarifying questions, and by encouraging even the quietest students to participate, the teacher models the way to conduct effective discussions. Students learn that there is often not just one correct answer to a question, and that it’s okay to disagree. Visuals, one big picture or a sequence of related pictures, are a useful tool for introducing a topic, presenting key vocabulary words, and providing open-ended discussion questions.
Example #1
One-on one discussions
One-on-one discussions are important because they provide a safe place to practice new vocabulary and structures. They also give students an opportunity to work with diverse partners, which also builds community within the classroom. Moreover, they provide an opportunity to practice clarifying skills whenever pronunciation isn’t understood or further explanations are needed.
Example #2
Group discussions
After students have become comfortable with one-on-one discussions, they enjoy group discussions. Often, the question prompts lead from more controlled to more open-ended free communication, where a variety of ideas and opinions are solicited and shared. After considering the diverse points of view within a group, students have a chance to weigh all the input and come to their own conclusions about the discussion topic.
Example #3
In summary, teacher-led discussions provide a model for effective discussion skills, one-on-one discussions provide a safe environment for students to practice what the teacher has modelled, and group discussions develop skills in working with a variety of people and diverse points of view.