Turn and Talk is a great strategy that has also been called Think, Pair, Share. Turn and Talk asks students to turn to their partner and discuss a specific topic. Like any strategy it is important to understand why it is of value in the classroom.
Why should a teacher use Turn and Talk? Research has validated the value of dialogue as a key to learning and understanding content. The capacity to ‘talk’ or engage in a conversation is directly linked to academic success. When using Turn and Talk, students learn to talk as well as listen to each other. It helps them to think about a topic and then rephrase information when discussing with another student. It allows discussion that involves all students rather than just a few. Students are more willing to share with the class if they have ‘practiced’ with their partner during a Turn and Talk. Students learn new terminology and develop a sense of ownership of the information they are learning.
Students need an atmosphere in which they can explore an idea without feeling all eyes are on them. This is especially true when students may not have an in depth knowledge of the topic. It provides a ‘practice’ time when students can challenge ideas without worrying if it is right or wrong. It is a time to rehearse before sharing with the entire class.
Dr. Saphier used the technique with the teachers and modeled examples of when it is appropriate to use Turn and Talk. For instance, when the teacher is not sure how much a student knows about a new topic being introduced to the class it is an excellent way to learn a student’s prior knowledge. Students are asked to write down and then share with their partner what they know about the topic. The teacher can discuss what has been learned with the entire class or gather the notes the students have written down. Turn and Talk can also be used to help students learn new vocabulary, to teach each other, explore a new idea, to help generate ideas when planning a writing assignment, and to discuss in depth a concept they have been studying.
When using Turn and Talk it is important to ask the students to talk about topics that are important and not superficial. Also expectations should be clear and concise. One caution for teachers is not to allow too much time for sharing. If too much time is allowed students can get off task. Teachers need to walk around the room during Turn and Talk and pick up ideas to further explore and to note when new partners may need to be assigned.
It is a fabulous way to engage all students and increase the ability to ‘Make Thinking Visible.”
