Turn and Talk

It is amazing to see how far Kindergarten instruction has come. When I was 5 years old, I took naps, and colored all day. Kindergarten is now the new first grade, and children are starting to learn how to partake in meaningful discussions. During read alouds, Mrs. Cecco asks a question, and then instructs the students to "Turn and Talk" to a friend next to them and discuss their answer. They then respond to their friends saying, "I agree because..." or "I disagree because..." This is a fantastic way to help very young students to think critically and build strong communication skills. As they get older, the discussions will of course be more complex, but they will already have the skills they need to effectively particpate in group activities and discussions because of the foundation that was laid for them in their early school years. Although, alot of students in kimdergarten are not yet properly following directions or correctly answering questions, they will eventually get the hang of it.