Prior to this lesson, students have been reading Riddle of Penncroft Farm, a novel that follows a young boy learning about the Revolutionary War and the critical role his family played in it. The class has been introduced to several characters that each provide insight into events leading up to a family riddle and the Revolutionary War. To assist in analyzing information, making connections to the text, and exploring new ideas, the class participated in a Chalk Talk.
In this activity, students worked in teams to circulate the room and respond to prompts on the pieces of paper. Students were asked to share their original thoughts and encouraged to respond to classmates' comments and ideas. At the conclusion of the Chalk Talk, groups joined back together and as a whole group, we discussed the information presented in the talk.
I was very impressed with the quality and quantity of students' thoughts. The Chalk Talk provided a great forum for every student to share his or her opinions on the reading and ask questions. Students remained anonymous and as a result, many felt more comfortable sharing their thoughts and questions.
Here is our visible thinking:
I was very impressed with the quality and quantity of students' thoughts. The Chalk Talk provided a great forum for every student to share his or her opinions on the reading and ask questions. Students remained anonymous and as a result, many felt more comfortable sharing their thoughts and questions.
Here is our visible thinking: