How can I carry out effective circle times with a large class of 36 8-9 year old girls. I find it difficult for all children to voice their views and opinions.
I wonder if you've tried mixing the girls up ,then pairing them off so that they discuss the subject of the round then respond together ,(using a script).That way you only have to wait for 18 responses- or even less if they report back in a threesome. You may also want to try breaking them into groups for Open Forum so that they respond together,maybe writing a few responses on big paper, then feeding back-quite fast. As long as you make the group or pair activities very structured & timed so that the circle is pacey & fast, you should be able to speed up the discussion part & have more time for fun & games!
If you think of how you react to long meetings where people take a long time to discuss things- the children feel the same - so do break up the discussions & enable as much of the student voice as possible to be heard.
Or try 'pairs and squares'. The children initially work as a pair and then join the neighbouring pair to make a square. Each square can feedback a maximum of two responses but most choose the 'best' one which really keeps the pace up. The children quickly understand the concept of pairs and squares and reflect carefully on their responses, sometimes I prompt that we will hear from someone new in the square to keep all involved.
Tell a friend
Enter yours and a friends name to send them this page.
