Tips on Grand Discussion
Make time and space for it. I recommend twice a week. Read less on the days that you have grand discussions
When back in your building and NOT social distancing, have kids in a circle. Part of having kids talk and discuss and REALLY listen to each is looking at one another. A circle helps with that.
Give a few ground rules at first (just talk when no else is talking and there is space, listen by looking at the speaker, leaning in, add on to what the person just said by saying things like I agree, I want to add on, and finally cite the text often).
Talking stamina is similar to writing and reading stamina. Start small, then let it grow. You might only talk for 5 min. the first few times and add time each time you have a discussion
Partnerships are powerful. When the energy/ideas are low, or someone is monopolizing the discussion, stop and give readers something to consider (secondary character, the title, who has power, etc) and have them talk with their partners about that idea. Listen in to as many as you can, and ask someone who hasn’t spoken yet to start the discussion (if they are comfortable). This will help teach kids how to think of those deeper ideas and will give an opportunity for a quiet voice to be heard in a safe way.