information, facts, or data used to support a claim, argument or belief

based on personal stories or experiences rather than on hard facts or scientific evidence

based on guesses or ideas rather than solid evidence or facts

something that has been checked and confirmed to be true, accurate or valid

Using evidence to elevate discussions

English

Working together: productive discussions and active listening skills

Moving discussions forward by responding and asking questions

Evaluating and practising discussion skills

In 'The fundamentals of discussion' pupils are encouraged to be confident speakers and active listeners, developing their ideas with evidence and posing questions. In 'Participating in effective debates' these skills are developed through the formal structure of debate.

In 'Talking transitions', pupils learn the basics of speaking with others in formal and informal settings. In 'The fundamentals of effective discussions' pupils develop these skills learning how to articulate and discuss complex ideas.

In this unit, pupils solidify and build thier spoken language skills. They start by learning what an effective discussion is and how they can use listening skills effectively. They then look at how questions and evidence can improve discussions before practising have conversations.

The fundamentals of effective discussion

Which word beginning with 'a' can be described as: 'being based on personal stories or experiences rather than on hard facts or scientific evidence.'?

If you are quoting directly from a source or text, this evidence is called ...

being based on personal stories or experiences rather than on facts or science.

being based on guesses or ideas rather than solid evidence or facts.

something that has been checked and confirmed to be true, accurate or valid.

If evidence has been verified, it can be described as ...

Which of these is **not** an example of a tentative phrase?

What type of evidence is being used in this sentence: 'More specifically Shakespeare writes "it is the east, and Juliet is the sun" in his play.'? 

What type of evidence is being used in this sentence: 'In my experience mobile phones have played a big part in my social life.'?

Which of these do you **not** need to consider when practicing your discussion skills?

What should you do if you don't understand something during a discussion?

It helps you concentrate on what is being said.

Why should you track the speaker during a discussion or presentation?

showing consideration and kindness for others' feelings and opinions

achieving a lot or producing good results in an efficient way

fully concentrating, understanding and responding thoughtfully 

a type of question that allows for a wide range of answers

Match the key words to the correct definitions.

Laura is involved in a discussion. She is waiting for her turn to speak, but is looking at the floor and only giving one word answers. Choose a WWW and an EBI to give Laura some feedback.

WWW: you interrupted the speaker which creates a respectful environment

Alex is involved in a discussion. He is speaking clearly, but Alex feels very strongly about the topic and keeps interrupting. Choose a WWW and an EBI to give Alex some feedback.

Starter Quiz

Which of these do you not need to consider when practicing your discussion skills?