Elevate classroom discussions with this comprehensive Habits of Discourse Lesson Plan and Graphic Organizer! Designed for middle school humanities teachers, this resource provides everything you need to foster meaningful, respectful, and structured conversations in your classroom. Whether you're working on developing your students' verbal communication skills or introducing them to nonverbal signals, this resource is your go-to tool for teaching effective discourse habits.

Why This Resource is Essential:

• Promotes Structured Communication: Teach students how to engage in Turn and Talk, Table Talk, and Whole Class Talk with clear expectations for what each form of discourse "Looks like," "Sounds like," and "Feels like."
• Develops Critical Thinking: Encourages students to express their ideas, listen actively, and respond thoughtfully, building a strong foundation for analytical thinking and collaborative learning.
• Incorporates Nonverbal Communication: Introduce your students to nonverbal signals like "agree," "disagree," and "connect" to enhance their ability to communicate without interrupting others.
• Fosters a Positive Classroom Culture: By establishing norms for respectful and inclusive discussions, you help create a classroom environment where every student feels valued and heard.

What’s Included:

• Detailed 60-Minute Lesson Plan: Step-by-step instructions for guiding students through the habits of discourse, including Do Now prompts, discussion activities, and reflection exercises.
• Engaging Discussion Topics: Ten thought-provoking prompts tailored for middle school students, ensuring relevance and engagement in each discourse format.
• Graphic Organizer: A user-friendly tool for students to visualize and document their understanding of effective communication during Turn and Talk, Table Talk, and Whole Class Talk activities.

Perfect For:

• Middle School Humanities Teachers: Ideal for those teaching language arts, social studies, or any subject where discussion is key.
• Back to School: Establish classroom norms early in the school year with this essential resource.
• Ongoing Use: Revisit throughout the year to reinforce and expand your students' discourse skills.

Benefits:

• Improves Student Engagement: Students actively participate in discussions, leading to deeper understanding and retention of material.
• Builds Confidence: Helps shy or hesitant students find their voice in a safe and structured environment.
• Supports SEL Goals: Aligns with social-emotional learning objectives by teaching students how to communicate respectfully and empathically.

How to Use:

• Start the School Year Strong: Implement this lesson during the first weeks of school to set a positive tone for the year.
• Enhance Group Projects: Use the discourse habits as guidelines during collaborative work to ensure productive and respectful teamwork.
• Reflect and Revise: Encourage students to reflect on their communication skills regularly, using the graphic organizer as a tool for self-assessment and growth.