TEACHING CHANNEL: Academic discussion tips

View this email in your browser October 25, 2014 The Power of Academic Discussions for ELLs New Videos! Engaging ELLs in Academic Conversations Watch how teachers in Oakland Unified School District build the oral language skills of all students through Socratic Seminars, analyzing complex texts, and talk moves. Participation Protocols for Academic Discussions Middle school ELA teacher Viet-ly Nguyen uses a participation protocol to structure student discussions. Adapting Socratic Seminar: Senior Project Reflection This video of high school ELA teacher Johanna Paraiso and her students shows how far students can grow with discussion protocols. Sarah's Notes #TchLIVE: Creating Teacher Communities in 140 Characters How can you possibly have a productive conversation in 140 characters?  I get it: The skepticism about having a "real" conversation in phrases, acronyms, abbreviations, and hashtags. Yet as counterintuitive as they may sound, Twitter chats work. They work because they are catalysts, because they introduce ideas for change, because they are constellations of resources. But perhaps more than any other quality, these chats connect teachers in ways that create communities. I look forward to our #TchLIVE chats knowing I get to hear from new-found colleagues. The real beauty of Twitter chats and #TchLIVE is that you never need an invitation — you're always welcome. If you haven't joined us yet, take a peek at our archived discussion from a recent chat, and then mark your calendar for our next one. (It’s on Nov. 13th. We’re chatting about the book, How We Learn.) As a spectator or as a participant, you will enjoy the collective wisdom of amazing teachers. Teacher Laureate at Teaching Channel Tchers’ Voice Why are Academic Discussions So Important for our ELLs? This strategy helps all students, but can be critical to language and content development for ELLs. Learn how to get started in your classroom.   Using Video Effectively: Research-Based Practices Hear what experts have to say about the research related to using video and online learning to improve teacher practice and lift student achievement.   Confessions of a Halloween Grinch Not everyone loves Halloween (there, we said it). One brave teacher shares why she would happily skip this holiday.   Read more blog posts Q&A: Answer These Questions Q: I’m a new librarian and having problems figuring out how to schedule classes. Help?! Q: What activities could I give to my 7th grade students (12 to 13 years) to teach linear equation in one variable? Q: I am looking for a creative way to teach the Revolutionary War. Any suggestions? Read more questions