Conversation Time

Conversation Time
Language - Language Foundation
Level	Primary
Age	2.5+
Prerequisites	None
Materials	Taped Line on Floor Vary according to lesson

In this activity the child or children engage in a conversation about an anecdote, object, or topic with the teacher, so they can learn or practice: sitting, listening, and speaking.

Presentation

1. Invite the children to sit on the line.
2. Explain that you have something to share with them.
3. Share an object, picture, or story for discussion and questioning. Mr. Rogers does this exceedingly well when showing an object to children.
4. Allow the children to take turns commenting.
5. After sufficient discussion, wrap up the conversation and dismiss the children from the line.

Notes

• The teacher needs to establish the proper way to sit on the line.
• Establish a system for taking turns talking, such as raising a hand or passing a special object.
• Try to keep the child on the topic at hand.
• Do as a small group activity at times.
• Keep the length of conversation appropriate to the developmental level of the children.
• Use your voice and body to encourage conversation.
• Be aware of your posture, so the children will model you.

Points of Interest

1. Objects and topics of discussion
2. Special chance to listen and observe each child
3. Different points of view
4. Difference between a question and a comment
5. Taking turns during a conversation

Control of Error

1. The teacher as moderator
2. The established procedure for line activities

Variations and Extensions

1. Bring two pictures and discuss similarities and differences
2. Use a newspaper or magazine article or book as a conversation starter
3. Problem solving as a group
4. As the children get older, the teacher can encourage full sentence contributions
5. Play the "Wondering Game" with older children. Encourage them to ask questions, like "I wonder what dogs see."

Material

1. Taped Line
2. Any object