In recent professional learning sessions during School Development Days and after school workshops, teachers have been diving into the transformative world of dialogic practices. These sessions have equipped Canterbury teachers with the skills and knowledge to foster rich, collaborative conversations in the classroom, enhancing teaching and learning experiences.

What are Dialogic Practices?

Dialogic practices involve engaging students in meaningful dialogue, encouraging them to express their thoughts, ask questions, and build upon each other’s ideas. This approach shifts the focus from traditional teacher-led instruction to a more participatory learning environment where students become active contributors to their education.

Why Are Dialogic Practices Good for Classrooms?

1. Better Thinking Skills: Students develop critical thinking by sharing and discussing ideas.
2. More Engagement: Interactive conversations make learning enjoyable and help students feel involved.
3. Improved Communication: Regular discussions enhance students' speaking and listening skills.
4. Stronger Community: Dialogic practices foster a sense of belonging and appreciation for different viewpoints.
5. Better Academic Results: Engaged students often achieve higher academic success.

At home, you can support your child by asking questions that promote rich talk about books and other texts. For example, when discussing a fictional text you could ask:

• Can you tell me more about that?
• How do you know?
• What’s important about this story?
• Is this story more about the plot or the characters?
• What does this story tell us about human beings?
• Why do you think that?
• When have you felt like that?
• What does it remind you of?
• What do you notice? 
• What do you wonder?
• What can you picture in your mind?
• What character evokes strong feelings and why?
• Which character do you relate to and why?

Karla Sevenoaks
Assistant Principal Curriculum and Instruction