Talk Box

"It is essential that children learn to talk fluently, coherently and meaningfully, and teachers have a large part to play in encouraging this; it's not just about talking per se but about the quality of the talk. This book emphasises teaching talk skills, encouraging discussion and developing articulate children; this includes conversations and discussions both with adults and with other children. It sets out different types of teaching involving children learning collaboratively through discussion with peers and centres on step-by-step lesson plans to develop hidden potential across the entire classroom. The detailed lesson pans will be a real boon for teachers - they are well explained and have a clear purpose; extension activities ensure all levels are covered. Each lesson includes a resources list and photocopiable worksheets and range from whole class to small group work; they take a cross-curricular approach. Central to the lesson plans is the 'talk box' - a collection of interesting objects which provide a focus for class discussion. The activities are based on these linked ideas: young children need their teachers to help them make sense of the world; the most effective medium for explaining, discussing, describing with children, is talk; children learn very well from one another when taught how to do so, and are a good resource for one another in the classroom; children may be able to talk, but they are not often aware what sort of talk can help them to get the best from their education; direct teaching of essential talk skills and understanding is straightforward and should be undertaken in school classrooms. A really valuable book, packed with practical ideas and an excellent time-saver for busy teachers." -Sarah Brew, Parents in Touch Review

"Oral language is important for all learners, but is rarely specifically taught in a structured manner. This book introduces teachers to a range of activities to promote these crucial skills in all children." -Stephen Parsons (Speech Language Therapy Team Manager at City and Hackney Teaching PCT and auhtor) and Anna Branagan (Clinical Lead Specialist Speech and Language Therapist at City and Hackney Teaching PCT and author)